Celtics-A year after winning the NBA championship, and having a rediculous payroll, the big 3 are a year older, and possibly a year too old. Although they were set for the Finals last year, this year will be alot tougher, as alot of teams are improved. The Celtics made no serious moves to improve their team, even though they had Allen, Garnett and Pierce. Now that Garnett and Pierce won a ring, what will they do? My guess is return to being an above average team, but not having enough to make a difference in the East.
Raptors-Germ O'Neal, 6'11, and Chris Bosh, 6'10, are two powerful people to have in the paint at all times. With another short playoff appearance last year, this team is hoping that O'Neal can boost them in the East. Although the team will not rely on Germ and Bosh, they will need to rely on their role players. If Calderon, Kapono and Moon can make the big shots, then this team really has a shot at making some noise in the East. Calderon, although he only averaged 11 points a game, also averaged 8 assists a game, will be a big part of this team. He shot 52% from the field, 42% from three, and 91% from the line, proving with the ball in his hands he is dangerous. Look for his stats to sky rocket as O'Neal and Bosh will draw alot of double teams.
76ers-Another team that had a short playoff run, but almost pulled off the upset against Detriot. With their young stars like Iquodala, and picking up Kareem Rush and Royal Ivey, this team has a shot at winning this division. Signing Elton Brand was huge for this team, as they finally have a big guy to throw into the paint. Andre Miller needs to have another solid season for this team really to prosper. As for Samuel Dalembert, who averaged 9 points and 9 boards against Detriot, he will put up bigger numbers having Brand play inches away from him.
Nets-Years ago this team was in the playoffs, putting out year after year of solid play, now are on the way down. Sure they got alot of youth for J-Kidd, this team no longer has the leadership it once had with Kidd and Jefferson. Vinsanity is now the leader of this team, and must use his veteran play to help guide this team to an above .500 season. Devin Harris and Yi Jianlian are two solid players, but are new to this system, and may struggle. I expect Vince to take the ball into his hands most of the time to attempt to take over this team.
Knicks-Ahh the Knicks, I just don't know where to start. This team brought in Mike D'Antoni to help propel this offense, but with this roster, im not sure even he can help. Zach Randolph and Q Richardson need to step up their play if they expect to be competitive in this division. With Duhon running the point, he has alot of options, but it will come down to if he will chose the right option. In all honestly, I do expect this team to be one of the best improved, simply because of the coach and the potential of their offense. But it is all about chemistry, and if this team cant click, or if Starbury is to much of a distraction, then this team will falter, again.
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