To get my standings, I used an extremely complex system of player rankings (I ranked 60 players for each position, coaches and team chemistry) and math equations that would make Stephen Hawking spin in his wheelchair. I won't bore you with the details, I just think it is more fun and surprising then picking "blah and blah team is in first place, blah and blah team is in second place."
The points each team ended up with is in parenthesis.
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1. Miami Heat (2310.29)
2012-2013 Record: 66-16, 1st in Southeast
Playoff Result: Defeated San Antonio Spurs in NBA Finals
Projected Depth Chart
C - Chris Bosh, Chris Andersen, Greg Oden
PF - Udonis Haslem, Rashard Lewis, Joel Anthony
SF - LeBron James, Shane Battier, Michael Beasley
SG - Dwyane Wade, Ray Allen, James Jones
PG - Mario Chalmers, Norris Cole
The Heat are back to back champs and have to be the favorites to three peat this summer. The major reason, of course, is LeBron James, who is the best basketball player on the planet. James has improved his shooting percentage for seven straight years, and like always, the points, rebounds and assists came in bunches. Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh are both on the decline, but as far as second and third options, it does not get much better then those. The worry about this roster is a lack of depth. If any of the big three go down the Heat could be in trouble. Mario Chalmers and Udonis Haslem are fringe starters, but solid role players for this roster. The fact is the Heat have to be the favorites as long as James continues to play at such a high level. Miami could be coming off three straight championships when James, Bosh and Wade have a choice to opt out of their contracts.
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2. Chicago Bulls (2192)
2012-2013 Record: 45-37, 2nd in Central
Playoff Result: Lost to Miami Heat in Eastern Conference Semifinals
Projected Depth Chart
C - Joakim Noah, Nazr Mohammed
PF - Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Erik Murphy
SF - Luol Deng, Mike Dunleavy Jr
SG - Jimmy Butler, Tony Snell
PG - Derrick Rose, Kirk Hinrich, Marquis Teague
The Bulls managed to win 45 games without their MVP. That is due to great coaching and a solid veteran cast. Now Derrick Rose is back and ready to roll and the Bulls should push 60 wins and challenge the Heat in the East. In Rose's absence, Jimmy Butler and Joakim Noah really stepped up as second and third options on this roster. Carlos Boozer is still a solid scoring option up front, but he is horribly overpaid and offers little in the way of defense. Luol Deng is an upcoming free agent and will look to continue his role as the second option on offense. Chicago has solid depth with veterans Kirk Hinrich, Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Taj Gibson.
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3. Indiana Pacers (1858.83)
2012-2013 Record: 49-32, 1st in Central
Playoff Result: Lost to Miami Heat in Eastern Conference Finals
Projected Depth Chart
C - Roy Hibbert, Ian Mahinmi
PF - David West, Luis Scola
SF - Paul George, Chris Copeland, Solomon Hill
SG - Lance Stephenson, Danny Granger, Orlando Johnson
PG - George Hill, CJ Watson, Donald Sloan
The Pacers have improved every year under Frank Vogel. He took over the team and led them to a 20-18 record to finish out the 2010-2011 season. The next three years the Pacers reached the Eastern Conference First Round, the Eastern Conference Semifinals and the Eastern Conference Finals. Even though he made some questionable decisions during the seven game loss to the Heat, the young head coach is one of the very best in the NBA. Indiana's roster has a very nice balance of solid veterans and young up and coming All Stars. This team starts with young recent draft picks Paul George and Roy Hibbert. George became the leader of this team following Danny Granger's season damaging injury. George has learned to fill up the stat sheet and improve a shaky jump shot. He signed a well deserved max deal in the off season. Hibbert had a mediocre regular season, but really came on during the playoffs, averaging 17 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks per game. There is no reason he cannot do that during the regular season. David West, George Hill, Luis Scola and Granger provide solid veteran leadership and play. Lance Stephenson rounds out the rotation, and he really came on in Granger's absence, showing strong defensive potential. The Pacers will have an improved Eastern Conference to deal with but they have the talent and experience to make another NBA Finals run.
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4. New York Knicks (1650.46)
2012-2013 Record: 54-28, 1st in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Lost to Indiana Pacers in Eastern Conference Semifinals
Projected Depth Chart
C - Tyson Chandler, Amare Stoudemire, Jeremy Tyler
PF - Andrea Bargnani, Kenyon Martin
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Metta World Peace
SG - Iman Shumpert, JR Smith
PG - Raymond Felton, Beno Udrih, Pablo Prigioni
Part of the fun of doing my predictions this way is that things do not always work out the way I expect. I never would have picked the Knicks to finish ahead of the Nets, but here we are. That mostly has to do with New York's experienced coaching staff, as opposed to Jason Kidd, who was ranked quite lower on my chart. Anyway, the Knicks bring back a similar team to the won that delivered them 54 regular season wins, the most New York has accumulated since the 1996-1997 season. Carmelo Anthony had a very good year, leading the NBA in scoring with 28.7 points per game. That seems to be Anthony's goal every year, and as usual, his team was unable to play team ball and he fell out of the playoffs pretty quickly. I see the same result this year. New York has a couple of other capable scorers in JR Smith and Andrea Bargnani, but it is unlikely you are getting very far with those two as your second and third best scoring options. Tyson Chandler will have to hold down the paint once again this year, because Bargnani, Anthony and what is left of Amare Stoudemire do not bother with defense at all. Honestly, I do not know how the Knicks ended up higher then the Nets in my rankings, and I will pick the Nets in 6 games once I do my playoff predictions.
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5. Brooklyn Nets (1476.25)
2012-2013 Record: 49-33, 2nd in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Lost to Chicago Bulls in Eastern Conference First Round
Projected Depth Chart
C - Brook Lopez, Andray Blatche, Mason Plumlee
PF - Kevin Garnett, Reggie Evans, Mirza Teletovic
SF - Paul Pierce, Andrei Kirilenko, Tornike Shengelia
SG - Joe Johnson, Jason Terry, Alan Anderson
PG - Deron Williams, Shaun Livingston, Tyshawn Taylor
It must be nice to have unlimited amounts of money. Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov will be paying more on luxury taxes then a lot of teams will be in total payroll. On paper, Brooklyn really upgraded a disappointing roster. Gone are overpaid, mediocre veterans Kris Humphries and Gerald Wallace, and in come long time Celtics Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce. Both players should make a seamless transition and give this Nets roster some real veteran leadership. Pierce is still near the top of his game at 35 years old, and now that he does not have to carry the load he should be fresh come playoff time. Same for Garnett, who can play 24 minutes or so per night, and who has shown he still has quite a bit left in the tank. Even better, he can still play some tough defense and rebound, something the Nets lacked up front last year. This team still starts with Deron Williams. There was a time he was mentioned in the same breath as Chris Paul, and he picked up his game as the season went on last year. Joe Johnson and Brook Lopez give the Nets four players who can drop 20 points on any given night. The second unit might be the best in basketball, with five guys who can step in and provide starters minutes and production if need be. The key to this Nets season will be if Jason Kidd can make the transition to head coach. The Nets could struggle some out of the gate, but I like their chances to hang with the best of the East when the playoffs roll around.
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6. Cleveland Cavaliers (1205)
2012-2013 Record: 24-58, 5th in Central
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Anderson Varejao, Andrew Bynum, Tyler Zeller
PF - Tristan Thompson, Anthony Bennett
SF - Earl Clark, Alonzo Gee, Sergey Karasev
SG - Dion Waiters, CJ Miles, Carrick Felix
PG - Kyrie Irving, Jarrett Jack, Matthew Dellavedova
The Cavaliers at six really surprised me, but I do think any team in the East other then the 76ers, Magic and Celtics could make a realistic run at these final three East playoff spots. Cleveland has two things going for them. First, Kyrie Irving is a true stud. The only thing holding him back from top ten player in the NBA status is injury concerns. Going back to high school he has dealt with one issue or another. But when he is on, he is one of the best scorers in the NBA already, and can get his teammates involved as well. Other then Irving, I have not been a fan of the Cavaliers draft strategy. I think Dion Waiters and Tristan Thompson were reaches who would be solid sixth men on a winning team. The jury is still out on Anthony Bennett as well, but you would have to think Victor Oladipo would have been a better fit. Those three players should all be solid as they continue to get experience. The key to whether the Cavaliers can make a real run will be the health of their big men. The center trio of Anderson Varejao, Andrew Bynum and Tyler Zeller look great on paper, but every one of those guys have some serious injury concerns. In fact, anything they get out of Bynum will be a bonus. Lastly, Jarrett Jack was a good free agent pickup. He can push Waiters at shooting guard and will ensure the Cavaliers will not fall apart if Irving gets hurt again.
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7. Toronto Raptors (1077.83)
2012-2013 Record: 34-48, 4th in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Jonas Valanciunas, Aaron Gray
PF - Amir Johnson, Tyler Hansbrough, Quincy Acy
SF - Rudy Gay, Landry Fields, Austin Daye
SG - DeMar DeRozan, Terrence Ross
PG - Kyle Lowry, DJ Augustin
Bryan Colangelo mortgaged the Raptors future and cap space by bringing in Rudy Gay, and that was the final straw that got him fired. In comes the reigning Executive Of the Year Masai Ujiri. He wasted no time, dealing the expensive and disappointing Andrea Bargnani to the Knicks for cap space. Other then that and the addition of Tyler Hansbrough and other spare parts, the roster remains the same as last year. Unfortunately for Raptor fans that have pipe dreams of Toronto native Andrew Wiggins donning Raptor red and black, this team is probably destined to be in no man's land, aka 35-40 wins. Gay is overpaid, but would make a solid second or third scoring option on a good team. DeMar DeRozan has 20 point potential, but is a poor defender and does not offer much more then the ability to slash and put up some points. Kyle Lowry and Amir Johnson are mediocre starting options. Other then Jonas Valanciunas, there is little to be excited about as far as young prospects. I am a huge fan of Valanciunas, and think he has top five center potential someday. Raptors fans need to express patience while Ujiri works this roster into shape. Unfortunately, he is going to have a tough time unloading the bloated contracts of Gay, Lowry and Landry Fields.
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8. Washington Wizards (1069.33)
2012-2013 Record: 29-53, 3rd in Southeast
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Kevin Seraphin, Al Harrington, Emeka Okafor
PF - Nene, Trevor Booker, Jan Vesely
SF - Trevor Ariza, Otto Porter, Glen Rice Jr.
SG - Bradley Beal, Martell Webster, Garrett Temple
PG - John Wall, Eric Maynor
A couple of seasons ago Washington management tried to go for the quick fix, trading for extremely overpaid veterans Nene, Trevor Ariza and Emeka Okafor. That worked out about as well as the tragic JaVale McGee and Andray Blatche led roster, meaning not at all. What Wizards fans have to hang their hat on is possibly the most talented young back court in the league. John Wall had his best stretch as a pro coming back from injury, averaging 20 points and 8 assists on some very good shooting percentages after the All Star break. He is still only 23 years old and should be one of the most explosive players in the NBA for the next decade. Bradley Beal averaged 14 points per game as one of the youngest players in the NBA, but put up a lot of his damage in the second half as well. I love the pick of Otto Porter. He is the jack of all trades the type a team like this would love to have. He will not play a lot at the beginning of the season but should not have much problem overtaking Ariza eventually. Martell Webster and Eric Maynor are both solid veterans who can start if need be. If Nene and Emeka Okafor can stay somewhat healthy (unlikely) and Kevin Seraphin and Jan Vesely can find some confidence and unleash their talent (even more unlikely) the Wizards could push for the sixth seed in the East.
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9. Detroit Pistons (1016.25)
2012-2013 Record: 29-53, 4th in Central
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Andre Drummond, Josh Harrellson
PF - Greg Monroe, Jonas Jerebko, Charlie Villanueva
SF - Josh Smith, Kyle Singler, Luigi Datome
SG - Rodney Stuckey, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
PG - Brandon Jennings, Chauncey Billups, Will Bynum
Joe Dumars likes cap space as much as a hole in the head. As soon as he was able to, he went and blew it all on Josh Smith and Brandon Jennings. Both are very good fantasy players, but I would not want to build a winning team around either. Jennings is one of the biggest ball hogs in the league, and has to jack up a ton of shots to get his 20 points per game. He has shot over 40% only once in his four seasons, and that was only 42%. He does not mesh well with Greg Monroe, who likes to operate and lead the team from the top of the post. It is kind of silly that his name is popping up in trade rumors, because he is the one Pistons starter who has an unselfish game. That's the Detroit way, I suppose. Rodney Stuckey and Chauncey Billups are two other players who need the ball in their hands at all times to be effective. Smith will have to transition to small forward, which he might like because it will be easier for him to jack up stupid 25 foot jump shots. Andre Drummond could get lost in the shuffle, which is unfortunate, because he has Dwight Howard potential (including the free throw shooting). The Pistons as a whole look good on paper, but I would have to see it unfold on the court before I can say this team can contend with the East's top five.
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10. Milwaukee Bucks (1004.75)
2012-2013 Record: 38-44, 3rd in Central
Playoff Result: Lost to Miami Heat in Eastern Conference First Round
Projected Depth Chart
C - Larry Sanders, Ekpe Udoh, Zaza Pachulia
PF - Ersan Ilyasova, John Henson
SF - Caron Butler, Carlos Delfino, Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo
SG - OJ Mayo, Gary Neal
PG - Brandon Knight, Luke Ridnour, Nate Wolters
The Bucks got ran out of the building by the Heat in the playoffs and it was obvious that changes needed to come. Milwaukee wisely rid themselves of Brandon Jennings, and replaced his scoring output with OJ Mayo. Other than that, Milwaukee decided to plug holes with mediocre veterans like Caron Butler, Luke Ridnour, Gary Neal and Carlos Delfino. I like Milwaukee's rotation of defensive minded big men. Larry Sanders, Ekpe Udoh and John Henson can all block shots and rebound. The bulk of the scoring will have to come down to Ersan Ilyasova and Mayo. Brandon Knight showed little point guard skills during his time in Detroit, and will struggle to hold off the veteran Ridnour. The Bucks had a chance to really strip this roster and position themselves for a much needed franchise player in the draft, and could be in the mix for either a top five pick or the 8th seed in the East and another beat down at the hands of Miami.
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11. Charlotte Bobcats (886.17)
2012-2013 Record: 21-61, 4th in Southeast
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Al Jefferson, Bismack Biyombo, Brendan Haywood
PF - Cody Zeller, Josh McRoberts, Anthony Tolliver, Jeff Adrien
SF - Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Jeff Taylor
SG - Gerald Henderson, Ben Gordon
PG - Kemba Walker, Ramon Sessions
It has been a rough going for the Bobcats since their inception a decade ago. The team made the playoffs only one time, and almost immediately fell apart. I think things are looking up in Charlotte though. First of all, they are set to become the Hornets once again in a couple years. On the court, there is a lot of young talent to like. Kemba Walker has developed into a nice scoring threat. He is not a pass first point guard, but he could reach 20 points per game during his prime. The Bobcats are catching plenty of heat for choosing Michael Kidd-Gilchrist over Bradley Beal and Andre Drummond. Kidd-Gilchrist might not ever be as good as those two players but he is a good defender and rebounder, and should get up to around 15 points per game during his prime. The Bobcats front court scoring was pathetic last year, and they brought in two offensive minded big men in Al Jefferson and draft pick Cody Zeller. They will be backed up by Bismack Biyombo, who will never be a scoring threat but could work his way into a good rebounder and shot blocker. The Bobcats will still be pretty bad, but could potentially have three, yes three, lottery picks in the 2014 draft. This could be a very deep and talented team by the time they don the teal and purple again.
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12. Atlanta Hawks (816.83)
2012-2013 Record: 44-38, 2nd in Southeast
Playoff Result: Lost to Indiana Pacers in Eastern Conference First Round
Projected Depth Chart
C - Al Horford, Gustavo Ayon
PF - Paul Millsap, Elton Brand, Mike Scott
SF - DeMarre Carroll
SG - Kyle Korver, Lou Williams, John Jenkins, Jared Cunningham
PG - Jeff Teague, Dennis Schroder, Shelvin Mack
Like the Bucks, Atlanta had a chance to really set themselves up for Andrew Wiggins by sacrificing this year. They had a ton of cap space they could have saved for the 2014 free agent extravaganza. After immediately being shut down by Dwight Howard and Chris Paul, Danny Ferry decided to bring aboard Paul Millsap on a short, two year deal and match an offer sheet for Jeff Teague. The Hawks could contend for a playoff spot, but I think other young, hungry East teams will pass them by. There is a lot to like about Al Horford and Millsap, and Teague continues to improve, but other then those three, the rest of the roster is composed of fringe starters and average role players. Kyle Korver and Lou Williams are good scorers who do not play a lick of defense. DeMarre Carroll, Elton Brand and Gustavo Ayon will fight for scraps in the front court. The Hawks have a few young players to develop, such as a potential future back court of Dennis Schroder and John Jenkins, but they are not going anywhere. Unfortunately for Hawks fans (the three that are left), this team might be just too good to land a stud in the draft.
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13. Orlando Magic (771.25)
2012-2013 Record: 20-62, 5th in Southeast
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Nikola Vucevic, Jason Maxiell, Kyle O'Quinn
PF - Glen Davis, Andrew Nicholson
SF - Tobias Harris, Maurice Harkless
SG - Victor Oladipo, Arron Afflalo, Doron Lamb
PG - Jameer Nelson, Ronnie Price, E'Twaun Moore
The three best players in Orlando franchise history are Shaquille O'Neal, Tracy McGrady and Dwight Howard. Each time the team lost their respective superstar, they have had to start over from rock bottom. It was a tough season for the Magic, but there is plenty to be excited about. Nikola Vucevic, Tobias Harris and Maurice Harkless are three young players the team acquired last season who showed some real flashes. What I love most about this team is draft pick Victor Oladipo. He was my favorite player in this class and who I thought the Cavaliers should have selected first overall. He is a strong defender and a relentless scorer who shows no fear attacking the lane. He has the drive and determination to be great. Orlando will suffer through another tough season, and may try to trade veterans Glen Davis, Arron Afflalo and Jameer Nelson for even more young pieces. If this team can add someone like Andrew Wiggins, Dante Exum or Julius Randle in the 2014 draft, they could really be a force once again in a few years.
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14. Boston Celtics (649.75)
2012-2013 Record: 41-40, 3rd in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Lost to New York Knicks in Eastern Conference First Round
Projected Depth Chart
C - Kris Humphries, Kelly Olynyk
PF - Jared Sullinger, Brandon Bass
SF - Jeff Green, Gerald Wallace, Keith Bogans
SG - Courtney Lee, Jordan Crawford, MarShon Brooks
PG - Rajon Rondo, Avery Bradley, Phil Pressey
Danny Ainge decided to pull the plug on the playoff Celtics, which I thought was a good idea. It was time. What I did not like is the trade that sent Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Jason Terry to the division rival Brooklyn Nets for salary camp anchors Kris Humphries and Gerald Wallace. MarShon Brooks was the only young player Boston received in return, and he is a fringe talent at best. Boston did get a handful of first round draft picks in return, but those are all expected to be mid to late first round picks. Regardless of the return, Ainge set his team up to land a very good player in the 2014 draft. As far as the current roster, Avery Bradley, Jeff Green, Jared Sullinger and Kelly Olynyk are the players to keep an eye on, as all four will most likely be the future of Boston basketball. Rajon Rondo is the great unknown. No one quite knows how good he will be without the big three he has played for his whole career, or if he will successfully return from serious injury, or even if he will be on the Boston roster come March.
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15. Philadelphia 76ers (347.5)
2012-2013 Record: 34-48, 4th in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Spencer Hawes, Daniel Orton
PF - Thaddeus Young, Lavoy Allen
SF - Evan Turner, , Rodney Williams, Hollis Thompson
SG - James Anderson, Tony Wroten, Khalif Wyatt
PG - Michael Carter-Williams, Darius Morris
As the year goes on, many teams will tank as they position themselves for Andrew Wiggins and others in a very loaded 2014 draft. The Philadelphia 76ers are the clear winners after the first leg of the race. In fact, they got off to a full sprint before the gun was even sounded, trading All Star Jrue Holiday to the Pelicans for a draft pick and a rookie who might not even play this year. They proceeded to sit on their cap space and not add any free agents. Several players on the roster (Kwame Brown, Jason Richarson, Nerlens Noel, Arnett Moultrie) have suffered serious injuries and might not even play until January or February. In fact, it was a challenge to even fill out this depth chart with 12 players. Thaddeus Young and Michael Carter-Williams are the only two 76ers expected to start the season in the rotation that will definitely have a future with the 76ers. Philadelphia does have a little bit of talent, but they are woefully thin up front and there is absolutely no depth to speak of. Charlotte's record of futility, a .106 winning percentage, is in serious jeopardy.
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Eastern Conference Playoff Predictions
Eastern Conference First Round
1. Miami Heat over 8. Washington Wizards 4-0
2. Chicago Bulls over 7. Toronto Raptors 4-0
3. Indiana Pacers over 6. Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1
5. Brooklyn Nets over 4. New York Knicks 4-2
Eastern Conference Semifinals
1. Miami Heat over 5. Brooklyn Nets 4-3
2. Chicago Bulls over 3. Indiana Pacers 4-2
Eastern Conference Finals
1. Miami Heat over 2. Chicago Bulls 4-3
2013-2014 NBA Finals
I have to give you a reason to check back and read the Western Conference Predictions and Preview!
The points each team ended up with is in parenthesis.
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1. Miami Heat (2310.29)2012-2013 Record: 66-16, 1st in Southeast
Playoff Result: Defeated San Antonio Spurs in NBA Finals
Projected Depth Chart
C - Chris Bosh, Chris Andersen, Greg Oden
PF - Udonis Haslem, Rashard Lewis, Joel Anthony
SF - LeBron James, Shane Battier, Michael Beasley
SG - Dwyane Wade, Ray Allen, James Jones
PG - Mario Chalmers, Norris Cole
The Heat are back to back champs and have to be the favorites to three peat this summer. The major reason, of course, is LeBron James, who is the best basketball player on the planet. James has improved his shooting percentage for seven straight years, and like always, the points, rebounds and assists came in bunches. Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh are both on the decline, but as far as second and third options, it does not get much better then those. The worry about this roster is a lack of depth. If any of the big three go down the Heat could be in trouble. Mario Chalmers and Udonis Haslem are fringe starters, but solid role players for this roster. The fact is the Heat have to be the favorites as long as James continues to play at such a high level. Miami could be coming off three straight championships when James, Bosh and Wade have a choice to opt out of their contracts.
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2. Chicago Bulls (2192)2012-2013 Record: 45-37, 2nd in Central
Playoff Result: Lost to Miami Heat in Eastern Conference Semifinals
Projected Depth Chart
C - Joakim Noah, Nazr Mohammed
PF - Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Erik Murphy
SF - Luol Deng, Mike Dunleavy Jr
SG - Jimmy Butler, Tony Snell
PG - Derrick Rose, Kirk Hinrich, Marquis Teague
The Bulls managed to win 45 games without their MVP. That is due to great coaching and a solid veteran cast. Now Derrick Rose is back and ready to roll and the Bulls should push 60 wins and challenge the Heat in the East. In Rose's absence, Jimmy Butler and Joakim Noah really stepped up as second and third options on this roster. Carlos Boozer is still a solid scoring option up front, but he is horribly overpaid and offers little in the way of defense. Luol Deng is an upcoming free agent and will look to continue his role as the second option on offense. Chicago has solid depth with veterans Kirk Hinrich, Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Taj Gibson.
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3. Indiana Pacers (1858.83)2012-2013 Record: 49-32, 1st in Central
Playoff Result: Lost to Miami Heat in Eastern Conference Finals
Projected Depth Chart
C - Roy Hibbert, Ian Mahinmi
PF - David West, Luis Scola
SF - Paul George, Chris Copeland, Solomon Hill
SG - Lance Stephenson, Danny Granger, Orlando Johnson
PG - George Hill, CJ Watson, Donald Sloan
The Pacers have improved every year under Frank Vogel. He took over the team and led them to a 20-18 record to finish out the 2010-2011 season. The next three years the Pacers reached the Eastern Conference First Round, the Eastern Conference Semifinals and the Eastern Conference Finals. Even though he made some questionable decisions during the seven game loss to the Heat, the young head coach is one of the very best in the NBA. Indiana's roster has a very nice balance of solid veterans and young up and coming All Stars. This team starts with young recent draft picks Paul George and Roy Hibbert. George became the leader of this team following Danny Granger's season damaging injury. George has learned to fill up the stat sheet and improve a shaky jump shot. He signed a well deserved max deal in the off season. Hibbert had a mediocre regular season, but really came on during the playoffs, averaging 17 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks per game. There is no reason he cannot do that during the regular season. David West, George Hill, Luis Scola and Granger provide solid veteran leadership and play. Lance Stephenson rounds out the rotation, and he really came on in Granger's absence, showing strong defensive potential. The Pacers will have an improved Eastern Conference to deal with but they have the talent and experience to make another NBA Finals run.
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4. New York Knicks (1650.46)2012-2013 Record: 54-28, 1st in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Lost to Indiana Pacers in Eastern Conference Semifinals
Projected Depth Chart
C - Tyson Chandler, Amare Stoudemire, Jeremy Tyler
PF - Andrea Bargnani, Kenyon Martin
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Metta World Peace
SG - Iman Shumpert, JR Smith
PG - Raymond Felton, Beno Udrih, Pablo Prigioni
Part of the fun of doing my predictions this way is that things do not always work out the way I expect. I never would have picked the Knicks to finish ahead of the Nets, but here we are. That mostly has to do with New York's experienced coaching staff, as opposed to Jason Kidd, who was ranked quite lower on my chart. Anyway, the Knicks bring back a similar team to the won that delivered them 54 regular season wins, the most New York has accumulated since the 1996-1997 season. Carmelo Anthony had a very good year, leading the NBA in scoring with 28.7 points per game. That seems to be Anthony's goal every year, and as usual, his team was unable to play team ball and he fell out of the playoffs pretty quickly. I see the same result this year. New York has a couple of other capable scorers in JR Smith and Andrea Bargnani, but it is unlikely you are getting very far with those two as your second and third best scoring options. Tyson Chandler will have to hold down the paint once again this year, because Bargnani, Anthony and what is left of Amare Stoudemire do not bother with defense at all. Honestly, I do not know how the Knicks ended up higher then the Nets in my rankings, and I will pick the Nets in 6 games once I do my playoff predictions.
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5. Brooklyn Nets (1476.25)2012-2013 Record: 49-33, 2nd in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Lost to Chicago Bulls in Eastern Conference First Round
Projected Depth Chart
C - Brook Lopez, Andray Blatche, Mason Plumlee
PF - Kevin Garnett, Reggie Evans, Mirza Teletovic
SF - Paul Pierce, Andrei Kirilenko, Tornike Shengelia
SG - Joe Johnson, Jason Terry, Alan Anderson
PG - Deron Williams, Shaun Livingston, Tyshawn Taylor
It must be nice to have unlimited amounts of money. Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov will be paying more on luxury taxes then a lot of teams will be in total payroll. On paper, Brooklyn really upgraded a disappointing roster. Gone are overpaid, mediocre veterans Kris Humphries and Gerald Wallace, and in come long time Celtics Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce. Both players should make a seamless transition and give this Nets roster some real veteran leadership. Pierce is still near the top of his game at 35 years old, and now that he does not have to carry the load he should be fresh come playoff time. Same for Garnett, who can play 24 minutes or so per night, and who has shown he still has quite a bit left in the tank. Even better, he can still play some tough defense and rebound, something the Nets lacked up front last year. This team still starts with Deron Williams. There was a time he was mentioned in the same breath as Chris Paul, and he picked up his game as the season went on last year. Joe Johnson and Brook Lopez give the Nets four players who can drop 20 points on any given night. The second unit might be the best in basketball, with five guys who can step in and provide starters minutes and production if need be. The key to this Nets season will be if Jason Kidd can make the transition to head coach. The Nets could struggle some out of the gate, but I like their chances to hang with the best of the East when the playoffs roll around.
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6. Cleveland Cavaliers (1205)2012-2013 Record: 24-58, 5th in Central
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Anderson Varejao, Andrew Bynum, Tyler Zeller
PF - Tristan Thompson, Anthony Bennett
SF - Earl Clark, Alonzo Gee, Sergey Karasev
SG - Dion Waiters, CJ Miles, Carrick Felix
PG - Kyrie Irving, Jarrett Jack, Matthew Dellavedova
The Cavaliers at six really surprised me, but I do think any team in the East other then the 76ers, Magic and Celtics could make a realistic run at these final three East playoff spots. Cleveland has two things going for them. First, Kyrie Irving is a true stud. The only thing holding him back from top ten player in the NBA status is injury concerns. Going back to high school he has dealt with one issue or another. But when he is on, he is one of the best scorers in the NBA already, and can get his teammates involved as well. Other then Irving, I have not been a fan of the Cavaliers draft strategy. I think Dion Waiters and Tristan Thompson were reaches who would be solid sixth men on a winning team. The jury is still out on Anthony Bennett as well, but you would have to think Victor Oladipo would have been a better fit. Those three players should all be solid as they continue to get experience. The key to whether the Cavaliers can make a real run will be the health of their big men. The center trio of Anderson Varejao, Andrew Bynum and Tyler Zeller look great on paper, but every one of those guys have some serious injury concerns. In fact, anything they get out of Bynum will be a bonus. Lastly, Jarrett Jack was a good free agent pickup. He can push Waiters at shooting guard and will ensure the Cavaliers will not fall apart if Irving gets hurt again.
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7. Toronto Raptors (1077.83)2012-2013 Record: 34-48, 4th in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Jonas Valanciunas, Aaron Gray
PF - Amir Johnson, Tyler Hansbrough, Quincy Acy
SF - Rudy Gay, Landry Fields, Austin Daye
SG - DeMar DeRozan, Terrence Ross
PG - Kyle Lowry, DJ Augustin
Bryan Colangelo mortgaged the Raptors future and cap space by bringing in Rudy Gay, and that was the final straw that got him fired. In comes the reigning Executive Of the Year Masai Ujiri. He wasted no time, dealing the expensive and disappointing Andrea Bargnani to the Knicks for cap space. Other then that and the addition of Tyler Hansbrough and other spare parts, the roster remains the same as last year. Unfortunately for Raptor fans that have pipe dreams of Toronto native Andrew Wiggins donning Raptor red and black, this team is probably destined to be in no man's land, aka 35-40 wins. Gay is overpaid, but would make a solid second or third scoring option on a good team. DeMar DeRozan has 20 point potential, but is a poor defender and does not offer much more then the ability to slash and put up some points. Kyle Lowry and Amir Johnson are mediocre starting options. Other then Jonas Valanciunas, there is little to be excited about as far as young prospects. I am a huge fan of Valanciunas, and think he has top five center potential someday. Raptors fans need to express patience while Ujiri works this roster into shape. Unfortunately, he is going to have a tough time unloading the bloated contracts of Gay, Lowry and Landry Fields.
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8. Washington Wizards (1069.33)2012-2013 Record: 29-53, 3rd in Southeast
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Kevin Seraphin, Al Harrington, Emeka Okafor
PF - Nene, Trevor Booker, Jan Vesely
SF - Trevor Ariza, Otto Porter, Glen Rice Jr.
SG - Bradley Beal, Martell Webster, Garrett Temple
PG - John Wall, Eric Maynor
A couple of seasons ago Washington management tried to go for the quick fix, trading for extremely overpaid veterans Nene, Trevor Ariza and Emeka Okafor. That worked out about as well as the tragic JaVale McGee and Andray Blatche led roster, meaning not at all. What Wizards fans have to hang their hat on is possibly the most talented young back court in the league. John Wall had his best stretch as a pro coming back from injury, averaging 20 points and 8 assists on some very good shooting percentages after the All Star break. He is still only 23 years old and should be one of the most explosive players in the NBA for the next decade. Bradley Beal averaged 14 points per game as one of the youngest players in the NBA, but put up a lot of his damage in the second half as well. I love the pick of Otto Porter. He is the jack of all trades the type a team like this would love to have. He will not play a lot at the beginning of the season but should not have much problem overtaking Ariza eventually. Martell Webster and Eric Maynor are both solid veterans who can start if need be. If Nene and Emeka Okafor can stay somewhat healthy (unlikely) and Kevin Seraphin and Jan Vesely can find some confidence and unleash their talent (even more unlikely) the Wizards could push for the sixth seed in the East.
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9. Detroit Pistons (1016.25)2012-2013 Record: 29-53, 4th in Central
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Andre Drummond, Josh Harrellson
PF - Greg Monroe, Jonas Jerebko, Charlie Villanueva
SF - Josh Smith, Kyle Singler, Luigi Datome
SG - Rodney Stuckey, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
PG - Brandon Jennings, Chauncey Billups, Will Bynum
Joe Dumars likes cap space as much as a hole in the head. As soon as he was able to, he went and blew it all on Josh Smith and Brandon Jennings. Both are very good fantasy players, but I would not want to build a winning team around either. Jennings is one of the biggest ball hogs in the league, and has to jack up a ton of shots to get his 20 points per game. He has shot over 40% only once in his four seasons, and that was only 42%. He does not mesh well with Greg Monroe, who likes to operate and lead the team from the top of the post. It is kind of silly that his name is popping up in trade rumors, because he is the one Pistons starter who has an unselfish game. That's the Detroit way, I suppose. Rodney Stuckey and Chauncey Billups are two other players who need the ball in their hands at all times to be effective. Smith will have to transition to small forward, which he might like because it will be easier for him to jack up stupid 25 foot jump shots. Andre Drummond could get lost in the shuffle, which is unfortunate, because he has Dwight Howard potential (including the free throw shooting). The Pistons as a whole look good on paper, but I would have to see it unfold on the court before I can say this team can contend with the East's top five.
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10. Milwaukee Bucks (1004.75)2012-2013 Record: 38-44, 3rd in Central
Playoff Result: Lost to Miami Heat in Eastern Conference First Round
Projected Depth Chart
C - Larry Sanders, Ekpe Udoh, Zaza Pachulia
PF - Ersan Ilyasova, John Henson
SF - Caron Butler, Carlos Delfino, Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo
SG - OJ Mayo, Gary Neal
PG - Brandon Knight, Luke Ridnour, Nate Wolters
The Bucks got ran out of the building by the Heat in the playoffs and it was obvious that changes needed to come. Milwaukee wisely rid themselves of Brandon Jennings, and replaced his scoring output with OJ Mayo. Other than that, Milwaukee decided to plug holes with mediocre veterans like Caron Butler, Luke Ridnour, Gary Neal and Carlos Delfino. I like Milwaukee's rotation of defensive minded big men. Larry Sanders, Ekpe Udoh and John Henson can all block shots and rebound. The bulk of the scoring will have to come down to Ersan Ilyasova and Mayo. Brandon Knight showed little point guard skills during his time in Detroit, and will struggle to hold off the veteran Ridnour. The Bucks had a chance to really strip this roster and position themselves for a much needed franchise player in the draft, and could be in the mix for either a top five pick or the 8th seed in the East and another beat down at the hands of Miami.
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11. Charlotte Bobcats (886.17)2012-2013 Record: 21-61, 4th in Southeast
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Al Jefferson, Bismack Biyombo, Brendan Haywood
PF - Cody Zeller, Josh McRoberts, Anthony Tolliver, Jeff Adrien
SF - Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Jeff Taylor
SG - Gerald Henderson, Ben Gordon
PG - Kemba Walker, Ramon Sessions
It has been a rough going for the Bobcats since their inception a decade ago. The team made the playoffs only one time, and almost immediately fell apart. I think things are looking up in Charlotte though. First of all, they are set to become the Hornets once again in a couple years. On the court, there is a lot of young talent to like. Kemba Walker has developed into a nice scoring threat. He is not a pass first point guard, but he could reach 20 points per game during his prime. The Bobcats are catching plenty of heat for choosing Michael Kidd-Gilchrist over Bradley Beal and Andre Drummond. Kidd-Gilchrist might not ever be as good as those two players but he is a good defender and rebounder, and should get up to around 15 points per game during his prime. The Bobcats front court scoring was pathetic last year, and they brought in two offensive minded big men in Al Jefferson and draft pick Cody Zeller. They will be backed up by Bismack Biyombo, who will never be a scoring threat but could work his way into a good rebounder and shot blocker. The Bobcats will still be pretty bad, but could potentially have three, yes three, lottery picks in the 2014 draft. This could be a very deep and talented team by the time they don the teal and purple again.
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12. Atlanta Hawks (816.83)2012-2013 Record: 44-38, 2nd in Southeast
Playoff Result: Lost to Indiana Pacers in Eastern Conference First Round
Projected Depth Chart
C - Al Horford, Gustavo Ayon
PF - Paul Millsap, Elton Brand, Mike Scott
SF - DeMarre Carroll
SG - Kyle Korver, Lou Williams, John Jenkins, Jared Cunningham
PG - Jeff Teague, Dennis Schroder, Shelvin Mack
Like the Bucks, Atlanta had a chance to really set themselves up for Andrew Wiggins by sacrificing this year. They had a ton of cap space they could have saved for the 2014 free agent extravaganza. After immediately being shut down by Dwight Howard and Chris Paul, Danny Ferry decided to bring aboard Paul Millsap on a short, two year deal and match an offer sheet for Jeff Teague. The Hawks could contend for a playoff spot, but I think other young, hungry East teams will pass them by. There is a lot to like about Al Horford and Millsap, and Teague continues to improve, but other then those three, the rest of the roster is composed of fringe starters and average role players. Kyle Korver and Lou Williams are good scorers who do not play a lick of defense. DeMarre Carroll, Elton Brand and Gustavo Ayon will fight for scraps in the front court. The Hawks have a few young players to develop, such as a potential future back court of Dennis Schroder and John Jenkins, but they are not going anywhere. Unfortunately for Hawks fans (the three that are left), this team might be just too good to land a stud in the draft.
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13. Orlando Magic (771.25)2012-2013 Record: 20-62, 5th in Southeast
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Nikola Vucevic, Jason Maxiell, Kyle O'Quinn
PF - Glen Davis, Andrew Nicholson
SF - Tobias Harris, Maurice Harkless
SG - Victor Oladipo, Arron Afflalo, Doron Lamb
PG - Jameer Nelson, Ronnie Price, E'Twaun Moore
The three best players in Orlando franchise history are Shaquille O'Neal, Tracy McGrady and Dwight Howard. Each time the team lost their respective superstar, they have had to start over from rock bottom. It was a tough season for the Magic, but there is plenty to be excited about. Nikola Vucevic, Tobias Harris and Maurice Harkless are three young players the team acquired last season who showed some real flashes. What I love most about this team is draft pick Victor Oladipo. He was my favorite player in this class and who I thought the Cavaliers should have selected first overall. He is a strong defender and a relentless scorer who shows no fear attacking the lane. He has the drive and determination to be great. Orlando will suffer through another tough season, and may try to trade veterans Glen Davis, Arron Afflalo and Jameer Nelson for even more young pieces. If this team can add someone like Andrew Wiggins, Dante Exum or Julius Randle in the 2014 draft, they could really be a force once again in a few years.
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14. Boston Celtics (649.75)2012-2013 Record: 41-40, 3rd in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Lost to New York Knicks in Eastern Conference First Round
Projected Depth Chart
C - Kris Humphries, Kelly Olynyk
PF - Jared Sullinger, Brandon Bass
SF - Jeff Green, Gerald Wallace, Keith Bogans
SG - Courtney Lee, Jordan Crawford, MarShon Brooks
PG - Rajon Rondo, Avery Bradley, Phil Pressey
Danny Ainge decided to pull the plug on the playoff Celtics, which I thought was a good idea. It was time. What I did not like is the trade that sent Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Jason Terry to the division rival Brooklyn Nets for salary camp anchors Kris Humphries and Gerald Wallace. MarShon Brooks was the only young player Boston received in return, and he is a fringe talent at best. Boston did get a handful of first round draft picks in return, but those are all expected to be mid to late first round picks. Regardless of the return, Ainge set his team up to land a very good player in the 2014 draft. As far as the current roster, Avery Bradley, Jeff Green, Jared Sullinger and Kelly Olynyk are the players to keep an eye on, as all four will most likely be the future of Boston basketball. Rajon Rondo is the great unknown. No one quite knows how good he will be without the big three he has played for his whole career, or if he will successfully return from serious injury, or even if he will be on the Boston roster come March.
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15. Philadelphia 76ers (347.5)2012-2013 Record: 34-48, 4th in Atlantic
Playoff Result: Did Not Qualify
Projected Depth Chart
C - Spencer Hawes, Daniel Orton
PF - Thaddeus Young, Lavoy Allen
SF - Evan Turner, , Rodney Williams, Hollis Thompson
SG - James Anderson, Tony Wroten, Khalif Wyatt
PG - Michael Carter-Williams, Darius Morris
As the year goes on, many teams will tank as they position themselves for Andrew Wiggins and others in a very loaded 2014 draft. The Philadelphia 76ers are the clear winners after the first leg of the race. In fact, they got off to a full sprint before the gun was even sounded, trading All Star Jrue Holiday to the Pelicans for a draft pick and a rookie who might not even play this year. They proceeded to sit on their cap space and not add any free agents. Several players on the roster (Kwame Brown, Jason Richarson, Nerlens Noel, Arnett Moultrie) have suffered serious injuries and might not even play until January or February. In fact, it was a challenge to even fill out this depth chart with 12 players. Thaddeus Young and Michael Carter-Williams are the only two 76ers expected to start the season in the rotation that will definitely have a future with the 76ers. Philadelphia does have a little bit of talent, but they are woefully thin up front and there is absolutely no depth to speak of. Charlotte's record of futility, a .106 winning percentage, is in serious jeopardy.
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Eastern Conference Playoff Predictions
Eastern Conference First Round
1. Miami Heat over 8. Washington Wizards 4-0
2. Chicago Bulls over 7. Toronto Raptors 4-0
3. Indiana Pacers over 6. Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1
5. Brooklyn Nets over 4. New York Knicks 4-2
Eastern Conference Semifinals
1. Miami Heat over 5. Brooklyn Nets 4-3
2. Chicago Bulls over 3. Indiana Pacers 4-2
Eastern Conference Finals
1. Miami Heat over 2. Chicago Bulls 4-3
2013-2014 NBA Finals
I have to give you a reason to check back and read the Western Conference Predictions and Preview!
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