It won’t be as easy to dismiss teams in the Eastern Conference as it has been in recent years with so much new and young talent making an impact.
The Move — LeBron James going from Miami, where he won two titles, back to Cleveland — is the overarching story in the East. His arrival attracted a bevy of talent to play alongside himself and all-star guard Kyrie Irving, and new coach David Blatt has a team that is an instant championship contender one year after it won just 33 games.
But the Cavs might not even be the best team in the East.
Chicago underwent the second most significant makeover during the offseason, getting the return from injury of former MVP guard Derrick Rose in addition to signing Pau Gasol and Nikola Mirotic, and drafting sharpshooter Doug McDermott. Many believe the Bulls should be the favorite to come out of the East.
And the conference depth is much better.
The Washington Wizards are improved. The Charlotte Hornets are improved. Toronto is coming off an unexpected playoff run, and re-signed one of its catalysts, point guard Kyle Lowry. Atlanta gets Al Horford back after an injury severely shortened his 2013-14 season. Indiana will slide downward without its star, Paul George, who is out likely for the season after suffering a broken leg during the summer.
Some of the bottom feeders have good young talent. The Eastern Conference is on the rise, and is easily in the best overall condition it has seen in years.
The teams
The East in predicted order of finish:
1. Chicago
A vastly improved offense combined with Tom Thibodeau’s defense gives the Bulls the edge.
2. Cleveland
LeBron James’ return and the addition of Kevin Love make this a title contender.
3. Washington
The John Wall-Bradley Beal combo may be the best backcourt in the NBA.
4. Toronto
A star-less team earned a playoff spot last year. It will again this season.
5. Charlotte
Unpredictable, but talented Lance Stephenson joins this up-and-coming group.
6. Atlanta
A full season with Al Horford should make this one of the surprise teams in the NBA.
7. Brooklyn
Lionel Hollins takes over for departed coach Jason Kidd.
8. Indiana
Coping without Paul George will make this season tough.
9. Detroit
Stan Van Gundy returns to coaching hoping to revive basketball in Motown.
10. Miami
An aging Dwyane Wade joins with Chris Bosh to keep the Heat relevant.
11. New York
Carmelo Anthony looks to thrive in new coach Derek Fisher’s triangle offense.
12. Boston
Still in transition, the Celtics will improve but need more talent and experience.
13. Orlando
One of the youngest teams in the league will be better, but still buried in the standings.
14. Philadelphia
The poster team of tanking has collected talent, but won’t collect many wins.
15. Milwaukee
New coach Jason Kidd may have the ROY in forward Jabari Parker.
