There’s still a long way to go, but now that the trade deadline has wrapped up, the playoffs are right around the corner. Let’s discuss how the East will look when it’s all said and done.
- Detroit Pistons
Detroit has been the most complete team in the East so far, remaining about 4 games ahead of the next best team. Still, these guys are young, and it won’t be easy with how the competition around them is looking.
- New York Knicks
Ever since the players’ only meeting after the loss to Dallas dropped New York to 25-18, they’ve won 8 straight. New York heating up is a scary sight for the rest of the East. They can make a finals run if they keep this up.
- Cleveland Cavaliers
Even after what has been a seemingly disappointing season thus far for the Cavs, Cleveland is still currently the four seed and is beginning to play their best basketball of the season. After making some trades, giving up Darius Garland and DeAndre Hunter but acquiring James Harden, Dennis Schroeder, and Keon Ellis, Cleveland could be the favorite to win the East.
- Boston Celtics
The top four teams in the East will be a complete toss-up this year. The Celtics are overperforming without Tatum and are currently the 3rd seed, but will likely fall below Cleveland before the season ends.
- Toronto Raptors
Toronto has been very impressive this year and could pull off an upset in the first round, but the second round is the ceiling for this squad.
- Philadelphia 76ers
One would think a team with a duo of Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid would be a top contender in the East, but defensively, they just don’t have it figured out. Philadelphia is a fun team to watch, but it still feels like they are a ways away from truly contending for a title.
- Orlando Magic
This year has been disappointing for Orlando, a team with high aspirations after acquiring Desmond Bane in the offseason. However, like usual, the Magic have been plagued by injuries and a terrible offense. Change is needed in Orlando if the Magic are serious about contending.
- Charlotte Hornets
At the beginning of the year, it looked like another wasted season in Charlotte. However, recently, the Hornets have found their groove and figured out a lineup that contributes to winning. They’ve won eight in a row and currently sit at the 10 seed, and with how they’ve been playing, I could see this team sneaking into the last playoff spot and giving Detroit a bit of a series.
