For the first time since 2007, we have an NBA Finals without the Lakers in it. Seems a bit strange. Almost not-quite-real. But we may have to get used to it — Kobe isn’t a kid anymore, and Mike Brown doesn’t seem like an inspired hire as coach.

So, Miami Heat vs. Dallas Mavericks?

Gosh, I hate to say this, because the LeBron-Wade-Bosh troika has bothered me since “The Announcement” … and it got only worse with that ridiculous “welcome” event in Miami. You know, the one in which our godlings tumbled from the sky to live among mortals and be worshipped by them.

I would love to see them lose … and I would love to see Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Kidd and Jason Terry win an NBA title.  Even Mark Cuban, their wacky owner, deserves a ring.

But I don’t see it. LeBron and Wade both are better than Dirk, and their supporting casts are a “push” … so I have trouble imagining this one lasting long. At all.

If Dallas doesn’t win … tonight … I don’t see them having a chance.

Actually, I will call this: Miami in a sweep. Four-nil.

NBA title No. 1 for LeBron and Bosh … but probably just the first of several.

Ack.

Game start at 4:30 a.m. tomorrow morning, here. Don’t know if I will be up for that … in terms of “emotionally” as well as “awake.”