Central Division

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1. Milwaukee Bucks

Being beaten by the eventual NBA champions shouldn’t deter them from making another run this year.

2. Indiana Pacers

They have an interesting core to build from and if Victor Oladipo is healthy they could surprise some in the playoffs.

3. Detroit Pistons

Their strength is in the front-court, but is Derrick Rose the answer for the backcourt?

4. Chicago Bulls

They’ve built a nice roster, but they need to find an identity if they want to be serious contenders.

5. Cleveland Cavaliers

John Beilein left the comforts of Michigan to see how he can use his talents to rebuild the Cavaliers. Continue reading →

Atlantic Division

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1. Philadelphia 76ers

A lot of money has been invested in their starting lineup to deliver a trip to the Conference Finals or better.

2. Toronto Raptors

They are the defending champs and they will defend that title without Kawhi, but the world will realize how good Pascal Siakam is.

3. Boston Celtics

Last year was a disappointment and they hope Kemba Walker is better than Kyrie was.

4. Brooklyn Nets

Even without Kevin Durant for his first season aboard this Nets team has a lot of intriguing pieces to build on.

5. New York Knicks

Sure signing four power forwards was a strange move, but they weren’t massive long-term deals. Continue reading →