As we approach the business-end of the season, one hoped-for reality of the NBA has come into focus: The league's goal to create more parity is working. We've got several elite teams, yes, but there are a host of other would-be contenders lurking just below this season's Big Three -- rejuvenated former-juggernauts,

The Cavaliers own an eight-game lead (in the loss column) over Boston with less than 20 games to play, and, in the West, the Thunder (who clinch a playoff spot with their next win) are up 11 on the Nuggets.