The reasons for the increase are varied but there is no doubt that having all five of the largest TV markets in the playoffs for the first time since 1990.  Again, thank you to the Knicks, as the Lakers, Bulls, Sixers and Mavericks have been fairly regular participants in the years since then.  The ratings bonanza should mean substantial revenue gains for the television partners, but should only mean additional headaches for the NBA.  The jump in playoff viewership follows a rise in regular season TV ratings and will only further complicate the already delicate negotiations with the players' union for a new collective bargaining agreement.

The NBA maintains that it is losing some $300 million a year despite rising attendance, merchandise sales and now record TV ratings, and wants a 30% cut in players' salaries.  The union wants to see the books, to verify the claimed losses, something David Stern is strongly, and suspiciously if you're a player or someone who hopes there is no lockout, resisting.

So, back to the action on the court.  The networks have to be hoping that the banged up Knicks can finally learn how to close out a game now that the series moves to the Garden.  With the Lakers and Spurs having tied up their series and Miami and the Bulls firmly in control of theirs, the TV execs are still smiling over the ratings yet to come.  Now, I'm not big on NBA predictions, since I don't follow the league that closely. So, if you want any help with your, um, entertainment, check out NBA predictions by BetUS.