Early Vacation: What's Next for the NBA's Non-Playoff Teams?

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Once again, it's that time of the year when 16 of the 30 NBA teams are geared up for the postseason.

Unfortunately for the teams that didn't make the playoffs, they will forced to watch the playoffs from their homes.

Also, the teams that failed to reach the postseason will most likely make some sort of offseason change(s) to try and improve their team for next season.

The unfortunate ball clubs—Charlotte, Chicago, Golden State, Indiana, Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis, Miami, Milwaukee, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Portland, Sacramento and Seattle all have to figure out what they need to do to reach the next level.

For some teams, the ingredient to success could only be one player or coach away.

While the others will have another disappointing season waiting for them next year.

 
EASTERN CONFERENCE

 
Charlotte Bobcats (32-50)

Restricted Free Agents: Jermareo Davidson, Ryan Hollins, Emeka Okafor

Unrestricted Free Agents: Derek Anderson, Earl Boykins, Othella Harrington

2009 Playoffs Chances: Encouraging

What's Next?

First off, owners Michael Jordan and Bob Johnson need to figure out if Sam Vincent will be the head coach for next season.

Shooting guard Jason Richardson seems to be satisfied with the job Vincent has done.

"Sam did the best job that he could with the personnel he had, the coaching staff he had." 

"He did what he was supposed to do. We didn’t achieve the goals we were capable of, but he did his job."

Whether Vincent remains the head coach or not, the Bobcats also need to improve their defense that gave up 100 PPG this season.

They also need to re-sign their star Forward-Center Emeka Okafor, because right now he is their franchise player.

Some good news is that they will end up with another high draft pick, and Adam Morrison along with Sean May will be returning from season-ending injuries next season.

The Bobcats played hard and competitive every night, but it didn't show in the wins column.

Charlotte is an up-and-coming team in the Eastern Conference, and a personnel change could be just what they need to make it the next level.

 

Chicago Bulls (33-49)

Restricted Free Agents: Luol Deng, Ben Gordon, Demetris Nichol

Unrestricted Free Agents: Shannon Brown, Chris Duhon

2009 Playoff Chances: Good

What's Next?

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