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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?
7 comments Last one added about 1 year ago — Leave a Comment
Erick Blasco about 1 year ago
Good article Mike!
I think the Pacers have to rebuild though and trade O'Neal and Tinsley. Granger is good and if Dunleavy plays like he did last season, he could become Indiana's Hedo Turkoglu. They need a legit post player though and Jermaine will never be healthy enough to be that guy.
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Michael Whittenberg about 1 year ago
Yeah J.O.'s best years might be behind him.
I think they should keep him and draft a point guard, because Tinsley gets hurt every year.
Tinsley is very talented--but health has always been his issue.
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Jeff Engelhardt about 1 year ago
Really solid write up. I think the Milwaukee Bucks could have a chance at the playoffs next season though if they make some roster moves during the summer. Skiles is the perfect guy for the job with his defensive mind set and if we can land a strong defender and figure out a way to tally more assists, the possibility is still there for a playoff appearance in a weaker Eastern Conference
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Chris Charbonnier about 1 year ago
Good article. You seem like you have widespread knowledge of the league which is nice to see. Although, you omitted the arrival of Rudy Fernandez in your portion on the blazers. If you aren't sure about him read my article or just watch him on YouTube. I'm telling you, he's the truth.
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JJ Stankevitz about 1 year ago
Man, you aren't kidding about the Bulls being a huge disappointment. I remember getting amped up about them maybe winning the East back in October...now look where we ended up.
Brown would be an interesting coaching hire, as it would seem to signal a short-term, win-now philosophy by the organization. And, considering that Paxson's job is becoming less and less secure, he may want to get quick results by hiring Brown.
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Haris Patail about 1 year ago
Great article. I think that Portland may have a better chance than good for making the playoffs. They are a good team and if Greg Oden proves to be a stud, they might beable to make it.
But the question is...whos place will they take for the top 8 seeds. Golden State is the 9th, and they are a really good team. I think way better than the Blazers.
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TJ Zwarych about 1 year ago
Fantastic Article, I think the Blazers have a very good shot to make the playoffs, next year, in my opinion, Dallas wont be in next year. The Final 2 spots will between G-State, Portland and Denver, Altough with Tim Duncan Getting older, San Antonio is a little bit worrysome also. If McGrady cant stay healthy next season, Houston might also be a team on the losing end, which i hate to say because I love them. But I just cant see Yao getting it done without McGrady if he cant stay healthy.
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