Leaders come in all shapes and sizes, but the one thing they all have in common is that their followers begin to duplicate their characteristics. On Sunday, when the Celtics-Magic (12:30 p.m. ET, ABC) and Cavs-Lakers (3:30 p.m. ET, ABC) take the court, four of the league's best leaders will be displaying those attributes that have helped shaped their teams' success.

Kevin Garnett, Boston Celtics: It is rare in professional sports that a star player can change teams and, by his mere presence, instantaneously transform his new locker room into a winning environment. Yet, that is precisely the impact that Kevin Garnett has had on his Celtics teammates. Granted, he gets plenty of help from Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and an able supporting cast. But this team belongs to KG.

Every aspect of Boston's turnaround is a direct reflection of the individual attributes Garnett brings to the court. For starters, his unselfishness is contagious. He is consumed by winning and has imposed his will on the entire roster in order to create an atmosphere of ball movement, selflessness and commitment. In addition, Garnett is one of the most versatile defenders the NBA has ever seen. He has used his passion and tireless communication on the defensive end of the floor to make the Celts the top-ranked team in points allowed and defensive field goal percentage.

KG's greatest gift, however, is his ability to lead. He relishes the responsibility of setting an example and the adulation or ridicule that ultimately will follow. At the same time, watching Kevin Garnett play basketball reminds all of us why we play in the first place. Because the game is fun.

Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic: There are few things in sports more satisfying than watching a young team grow as it begins to realize it is developing into something special. It is even more rewarding when one member of the team becomes a superstar and yet maintains the grounded maturity that enables him to lead his team. That team is the Orlando Magic. Their superstar is Dwight Howard.

Walking onto the floor being led by Dwight Howard gives the Magic an incomparable sense of confidence because they know they can compete physically with any team they face. Howard dominates the paint with freakish strength and athleticism and his teammates flourish knowing that he will be the primary focus of opposing defenses. The Magic weren't built for Dwight Howard. They were built around him.

Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu were brought in to provide spacing and perimeter scoring. Jameer Nelson, a true point guard, was drafted with Howard to be the floor leader and decision-maker every center needs. Interestingly, each member of Orlando's young nucleus demonstrates the same unassuming personality that jells seamlessly with Howard's quiet strength. OK, 23 points, 15 boards and 3 blocks certainly help deliver his message.

Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers: When you think of the city of Los Angeles the first word that comes to mind is "cool." But, when you think of the Lakers' Kobe Bryant, "cool" just doesn't begin to describe him. He has an amazing ability to remain calm, even in the midst of the most pressure-packed situations. Need a game winner in the playoffs? No problem. Defensive stop against one of the premier scorers in the game? Got it. Deal with legal issues in Colorado, fly to L.A., and win the game at the buzzer? Did that too.

George Gervin may have been the original "Ice Man," but Bryant is just plain cold-blooded. In the past, his Lakers teammates, justifiably, had a hard time warming to Kobe. He carried himself with an aloof detachment that made getting to know him very difficult. That's ancient history. This group of Lakers has embraced Bryant and he, in turn, has opened up and trusted his teammates.

This supporting cast embodies the same calm, cool and collected demeanor that Bryant oozes. His confidence in Andrew Bynum, Derek Fisher, Jordan Farmar, and Trevor Ariza has given the Lakers the combination of chemistry and talent that will give Bryant his best chance at a Finals appearance since Shaq hit South Beach.

LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers: LeBron James understands what so many young superstars lack the maturity to comprehend. Simply put, demonstrating patience and unconditional support of your teammates is the most effective way to truly maximize your team's talent. King James is the perfect star for the Cavs to rely upon.

Despite the frustration that must come with being surrounded by limited offensive talent and the absence of another All-Star-caliber player, James remains true to his supporting cast. He understands that his actions with regard to his team will ultimately determine whether this particular group of Cavaliers will ever win a championship.

LeBron is the most talented player on planet, yet his ability to facilitate the game for Drew Gooden, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Daniel Gibson and Anderson Varajeo is his greatest attribute. These guys don't need just any leader or great player. They need LeBron. He gives them confidence and he will give them a chance at a title. They are a perfect fit.

ESPN analyst Tim Legler is a regular contributor to the Daily Dime

Dimes Past: Jan. 19-20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25

By Jalen Rose | ESPN.com

Each team playing on Sunday brings its own level of success to floor, but all eyes will be focused on the four superstars playing in those games. A closer look at their seasons will show why.

The first game features the bigs. They'll be lining up as teammates in the All-Star Game, but on Sunday Kevin Garnett and Dwight Howard will face off for the third and final time this season.

Since joining the Celtics, KG has been the difference maker -- the team is now the No. 1 defensive team in the league (allowing opponents to shoot only 41.9 percent from the field, while giving up only 88 points per game).

Howard is a man-child and dominant force down low averaging 14.9 rebounds per game (1st in the NBA). He commands so much attention from the opposing team he is often double- and triple-teamed, leaving his teammates set up on the perimeter for an open 3-point shot (the Magic are second in the league in 3-pointers made). If Howard's not going to score down low, he'll find someone on the perimeter who will.

The second game of the doubleheader features two of the most complete players in the game today. Kobe Bryant looks to avenge the 94-90 loss to LeBron James' Cavs earlier this season.

So far, the Lakers have one of the top benches in the game and one of the top young big men in Bynum, who has really blossomed this season (although he'll miss this matchup because of his injured knee). Everyone knows Kobe has the ability to make big plays down the stretch to help his team win, but his willingness to play more team-oriented basketball has shown he can be a true leader.

King James is my leading MVP candidate. He is the only player averaging 30 points and 7 rebounds with 7 assists per game. With his strong ability to penetrate, pass and shoot, he draws almost all of the attention of the opposing defense, which opens the lane for putbacks and open 3-point attempts. His versatility allows him to understand when to give up a good shot to get a great shot. His coaches and teammates believe in his ability to always make the right play at the right time.

ESPN analyst Jalen Rose is a regular contributor to the Daily Dime. For more about Jalen, visit his Web site: JalenRose.com.

Mike (Whitehall PA): Hey Dave what do u think of Dwight Howard as a MVP candidate?

David Thorpe: D Howard is a top contender provided the Magic stay on top.

Dave McMenamin: Yeah, I'm sorry about the synching. I'm doing my best. Dwight for MVP? Nah. If the award goes to the East it's going to be KG. Otherwise, KB24's 12-year draught will finally be over.

LeBron James (CLE): Can MVP voters honestly sit there and say there is another player in the league more valuable to their team than I am to mine? I'm not trying to toot my horn, Thorpedo, but nobody does more with less talent ('07 EC Champs anyone?).

David Thorpe: LeBron is in a class by himself.

• See the full David Thorpe chat