i don't even think that's debateable. huge influx of talent in mid-late 80s that really started to bear fruit @ the turn of the decade. you had maybe 5 or 6 teams w/ hall of fame, top 5 ever at their position type guys, backed by deep benches. some great coaches in the mix as well.

i really think you're underplaying how weak the 80s west was. those last 3 lakers titles were cakewalks. i mean, look at who they beat in 87

http://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/NBA_1987.html

cmon fam lol