2016-2017 NBA Eastern Conference Predictions
Let me start off by saying that after the Cavs, this year's playoff race is going to be wild. This offseason gave a change of scenery to tons of different players which gives many different teams a whole new look this year. The playoff race was right this year, and I wouldn't be surprised if it was even tighter this year. All of that being said, let's get into my predictions!
1. Cavs – Last season: 57-25
My prediction: 56-26
Key Additions: Mike Dunleavy Jr., Chris Anderson
Key Subtractions: Matthew Dellevedova, Timofey Mozgov, Mo Williams
Defending champs. Last year’s number one seed. Not much else needs to be said. They're the best team in the East, and I don't see that changing this season. Losing Dellevedova and Mo Williams leaves them a little thin at the point guard position, but they should be just fine through the regular season.
2. Pistons – Last season: 44-38
My prediction: 54-28
Key Additions: Ish Smith, Jon Leuer, Boban Marjnonovic
Key Subtractions: Steve Blake, Anthony Tolliver
Last season the Pistons were tied for the best 8 seed record in NBA history and they were swept by the eventual champs. The biggest Issue for this team was its bench, and that Issue was solved during free agency. Picking up Ish Smith, Jon Leuer and the giant Boban Marjnonovic gives them one of the best, most complete benches in the league. After a summer of internal development, expect this young team to make the jump.
3. Celtics – Last season: 48-34
My prediction: 53-29
Key Additions: Al Horford
Key Subtractions: Evan Turner
The Celtics' record was tied for third best in the East last season, and they added to their young, taletned roster this offseason by signing the very talented Al Horford. I fully expect the Celtics to be in the heart of the conversation for second best team in the east.
4. Raptors – Last season: 56-26
My prediction: 50-32
Key Additions: Jared Sullinger
Key Subtractions: Bismack Biyombo, Luis Scola
In my humble opinion, I think the Raptors hit their peak last season. They lost some key pieces and I just don't see them getting better. I don't think they'll necessarily be worse this season, but I do see other teams being better and passing them in the standings.
5. Hawks – Last season: 48-34
My prediction: 48-34
Key Additions: Dwight Howard, Jarret Jack
Key Subtractions: Al Horford, Jeff Teague,
They lost Jeff Teague and Al Horford, and on the surface one might think they'll be much worse off. I disagree. I think Dennis Schröder will do a great job replacing Teague, and I believe that Dwight Howard will have a comeback season. He offers a dynamic that Horford didn't - Elite rebounding and rim protection. Don't forget about Paul Millsap or Kent Bazemore either.
6. Pacers – Last season: 45-37
My prediction: 45-37
Key Additions: Jeff Teague, Al Jefferson, Thaddeus Young
Key Subtractions: George Hill, Jordan Hill, Ian Mahimi
Talent wise, they upgraded. Fit wise? I'm not sure. Losing George Hill loses them some pretty good perimeter defense. Although Al Jefferson is an elite post scorer, he's getting older, slower, and less efficient. I think It’ll take longer than people think for them to gel. They will be one of the most intriguing teams in the league this season for better or worse.
7. Knicks – Last season: 32-50
My prediction: 43-39
Key Additions: Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, Courtney Lee, Brandon Jennings
Key Subtractions: Arron Afflalo
This is a team that could end up close to the 4 seed, or close to 14. They've added former star power which could prove to be great, or a waste of hope. Melo is rejuvenated and should have his best season in a few years. I wouldn't be surprised if Rose had his best season in a few years as well. This could be fun if everyone can stay relatively healthy.
8. Bulls – Last season: 42-40
My prediction: 42-40
Key Additions: Dwyane Wade, Rajon Rondo
Key Subtractions: Pau Gasol, Joakim Noah
I genuinely think that Wade and Jimmy will will them into playoffs, but the Bull's extreme lack of shooting could be problematic. I don't see them climbing higher than 8, even if all goes well. This team could be exciting to watch, or a complete disaster.
Honorable mentions:
Wizards – Last season: 41-41
Will the John Wall/Bradley Beal back court be enough this year? I don't think so. If Beal can stay healthy for a majority of the season, maybe. But until he proves he can be healthy, I don't see it happening for them.
Hornets – Last season: 48-34
They lost quite a few key pieces - Al Jefferson, Courtney Lee and Jeremy Lin. I don't think they'll be able to make much noise this season.
