With most teams starting to take shape. Everybody is starting to rank the league. With the stacked Draft now past us and the sudden emergence of Washington and Toronto. The East is slowly getting better. It’s still not the West but the East is getting better and that’s great to see.
So. Without further ado. Here is my early NBA Playoff Picture for the Eastern Conference.
1) Cleveland Cavaliers
With a stacked squad such as this. It would be crazy not to put this team on top. Just having LeBron is 50 wins right there. If he could make the Finals with Larry Hughes. He must be able to get it done with this team. Kyrie, Waiters, Thompson. The options are endless.
2) Chicago Bulls
Chicago have made significant progress this offseason. With Rose looking better than he was four years ago (according to Coach K) and also the acquisition of Pau Gasol. They’re a lock for the 2 seed. The only reason I didn’t put Chicago at 1 is only because of Rose. We all said positive things this time last year and we all know what happened.
3) Washington Wizards
If I told you three years ago that the Washington Wizards would be one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference, you’d laugh at me. But once John Wall got his max contract, he has locked in and has really led this team and it’s paid dividends. I love John Wall, I think he is very underrated and I hope he proves himself once again because some of you aren’t giving him enough credit.
4) Toronto Raptors
Another team that got hot in the latter stages of last season. Toronto look very nice coming into the new season. They have good chemistry, everyone knows their place in the team and if DeRozan rises his game. They can definitely get the 4th seed.
5) Miami Heat
The Heat squad is down to two stars and from the news of Dwyane Wade losing weight, I’m really liking the Heat at this moment in time. They have many pieces and players ready to prove themselves. 5 seed has the Heat written all over it.
6) Charlotte Hornets
Another team that seemed destined to live at the bottom of the East but has suddenly become a legitimate Playoff team. Kemba is slowly but surely getting better. Al Jefferson is automatic and I really like Noah Vonleh. Charlotte for a half decent 6th seed.
7) Atlanta Hawks
I liked Atlanta last season without Horford and I expect more of the same with Horford. Jeff Teague made himself known by leading ATL and squeezing into the Playoffs. Don’t sleep on Paul Millsap either. He’s legit too. Atlanta for number 7 but you never know. They might push for a higher seed.
8) Brooklyn Nets
With the final Playoff spot it goes to the best team in New York. (yes I said it) Brook Lopez is coming back which is a major boost. Joe Johnson is consistent all the time. I have no idea if Deron Williams will turn up. Plumlee is a good piece for the Nets and I can see them getting the 8th seed. But it all depends on how good Williams is.
