ponky, this is NBA, sweetheart. don't be sorry. the rule here is to kick a team hard when it's already down. the west is unforgiving, one false slip and you'll be facing an unwanted opponent in the playoffs.
again seriously, the loss of Wade will have a very strong but indirect impact on the West too. The winner of the East (Detroit) will most probably come out unscathed. But, in the West, Phoenix, Spurs and Dallas (Houston will be a dark horse) will be beating each other to death. A well-rested (although mediocre) East finalist vs. a half-beaten, half dead, Western winner will be an interesting watch. Last year, the East took the cake, primarily because, Dallas choked, and Dallas was probably too tired having to face the Spurs and the Suns en route to the finals.