<
>
EXCLUSIVE CONTENT
Get ESPN+

John Hollinger's Playoff Odds

The Spurs and Thunder are both on pace to win at least 60 games this season. D. Clarke Evans/NBAE/Getty Images

Life is easier for the league's big-market teams, but not so easy that a shrewd small-market team can't outflank them … especially with the help of a once-in-a-generation-type star.

Like, say, Tim Duncan or Kevin Durant.