NBA

Northwest Division

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1. Oklahoma City Thunder

Even with the loss of Kevin Durant, the Thunder are still a solid team with Westbrook.

2. Portland Trail Blazers

This will be an interesting year for them to possibly pass OKC for the division.

3. Utah Jazz

They made some strides last year. Time to see if they can punch it with a playoff berth.

4. Minnesota Timberwolves

Of all the teams to watch, this one will be at the top of the list.

5. Denver Nuggets

They have a solid rotation, but they are in a stacked conference. Continue reading →

Southwest Division

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1. San Antonio Spurs

They are still a deep, talented roster and remain among the best in the conference.

2. New Orleans Pelicans

A healthy Anthony Davis can make all the difference for them being a playoff team.

3. Memphis Grizzlies

While they are getting a little older, they are a tough team to keep down.

4. Dallas Mavericks

Adding Harrison Barnes could be seen as a risk, but he is far too talented to not help them.

5. Houston Rockets

This will be an interesting experiment with James Harden running the show. Continue reading →

Southeast Division

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1. Atlanta Hawks

Adding Dwight Howard gives them a presence in the paint they haven’t seen since Dikembe Mutombo.

2. Charlotte Hornets

Their frontcourt depth puts them in the upper echelon of the conference.

3. Washington Wizards

With a new coach maybe they can still salvage the current roster structure and have a longer playoff stay.

4. Orlando Magic

The future is looking pretty intriguing for the franchise.

5. Miami Heat

Losing Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh has put them back into obscurity. Continue reading →

Central Division

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1. Cleveland Cavaliers

It’s a safe bet they’ll be expected to make a third consecutive Finals appearance.

2. Milwaukee Bucks

The time is now for them to put this together and get into the playoffs.

3. Chicago Bulls

This will now be Jimmy Butler’s team with Derrick Rose being traded.

4. Indiana Pacers

Expect a big season from Paul George as the Pacers offense begins to open up.

5. Detroit Pistons

It’s been a tough go for them, but having Andre Drummond helps keep them competitive. Continue reading →

Atlantic Division

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1. Toronto Raptors

Bringing back DeRozan ensures they remain contenders atop the Eastern Conference.

2. Boston Celtics

Adding Al Horford puts them one step ahead of the pack.

3. New York Knicks

A lot roster changes, but overall they’re better than last year.

4. Brooklyn Nets

They’re starting over and trying to clear some necessary cap space.

5. Philadelphia 76ers

The youth movement has hit its climax with the addition of Ben Simmons. Continue reading →