1) Charlotte Bobcats
There are always a few surprise overachievers in the NBA.
Last year, it was the Raptors. This year, there's no reason it can't be the Bobcats.
PG Raymond Felton has great handles and makes crisp passes. As he gains experience and his defense and shooting improve, Felton will take his place among some of the better point guards in the league.
The best reason for hope, though, comes from the wings.
Gerald Wallace has always been a freakish athlete—even as he's been limited by a raw offensive game. He's improved exponentially over the past few years, and looks to be even better with Jason Richardson by his side.
Richardson is one of the strongest scoring guards in the league. While his drives to the basket are often out of control, his power and speed leave inferior defenders and late rotators eating his dust.
Emeka Okafor has had his NBA learning curve shortened by injuries. He's a great rebounder, screen-setter, and shot-blocker, but his offensive game is undeveloped.
Still, he contributes enough on put-backs, lobs, dunks, step-throughs, and occasional hook shots to be serviceable.
On the bench, Walter Hermann will need to duplicate the success he had late last season. If he does, the Bobcats will have yet another prolific scorer—and a matchup nightmare for opposing backups.
Matt Carroll is a surprisingly physical dead-eye shooter. Jeff McInnis plays out of control, but is an explosive scorer in a broken court.
The real key to Charlotte's season is at head coach. Bernie Bickerstaff was able to nurture the young ‘Cats the right way. Can new head man Sam Vincent follow suit?
Vincent will have to be forceful yet compassionate to get the most out of his team. With no previous head coaching experience, can he make the necessary day-to-day tactical adjustments to take advantage of opponents?
If Vincent can continue to coach up the young ‘Cats, and if the team (especially Okafor) can stay healthy, winning the Southeast might not be far-fetched, given the mediocre competition.
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