East Division

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1. Philadelphia Flyers

Last year might not have ended the way they hoped, but they are far too talented to not make another run.

2. Boston Bruins

Their defense took a hit in free agency. Their depth on offense should help offset any issues on the blue line.

3. New York Islanders

The Barry Trotz system is working to near perfection on Long Island.

4. New York Rangers

This is their chance to show a quick turnaround in their rebuild to become contenders.

5. Pittsburgh Penguins

It would be shocking to see them miss the playoffs, but there are too many holes that could be hard to overcome down the stretch.

6. Washington Capitals

The cap crunch is coming and some players are starting to show their age on the ice.

7. Buffalo Sabres

If they weren’t playing in a stacked division like this one, they could be contending for a Wild Card spot.

8. New Jersey Devils

They fell flat on the ice last year and this season won’t be any better for them. Continue reading

NBA Finals and Award Projections

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* – indicates playoffs

MVP – G Luka Doncic – Dallas Mavericks

Rookie – G Anthony Edwards – Minnesota Timberwolves

Coach – Lloyd Pierce – Atlanta Hawks

Defensive Player – C Bam Adebayo – Miami Heat

Most Improved – G Markelle Fultz – Orlando Magic

Sixth Man – F Montrez Harrell – Los Angeles Lakers

Executive – Travis Schlenk – Atlanta Hawks

Playoffs Continue reading

Pacific Division

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1. Los Angeles Lakers

As long as Anthony Davis stays healthy, they will be championship contenders for many years.

2. Los Angeles Clippers

After the way last season ended the only way to erase that memory is to make it to the Finals and win. Do they have it in them?

3. Phoenix Suns

Adding Chris Paul puts them in the ‘most interesting team to watch’ category in the Western Conference.

4. Golden State Warriors

Not having Klay Thompson does diminish the thought of contending for a title, but if Stephen Curry is healthy this roster has some good complimentary pieces in place.

5. Sacramento Kings

It is clear that De’Aaron Fox is the face of this franchise. Now will the rest of the roster take the next step with him? Continue reading