After trading Jason Kidd last season to the Dallas Mavericks, and Richard Jefferson just recently to the Milwaukee Bucks for Yi Jianlian and Bobby Simmons, don’t be surprised to see Vince Carter next in line to be dealt. Of course, Nets’ management claim they’re not looking to part ways with the acrobatic two-guard, but don’t be fooled. Carter is 31-years-old and if the right deal comes along, the Nets wouldn’t mind dealing him.
New Jersey may not be playoff-bound, but they’ll make some noise. With the dilapidation in the lower end of the Eastern Conference playoff race, the Nets might even have an outside shot of clinching the eighth seed. Re-signin Nenad Krstic is a priority for them.
Projected starting five: C Brook Lopez, PF Nenad Krstic, SF Yi Jianlian, SG Vince Carter, PG Devin Harris.
The New York Knicks are trying to make big changes, but their hands are tied with so many overpaid players. They’d love to be rid of Zach Randolph’s huge contract, as well as Eddy Curry’s, Malik Rose’s and Stephon Marbury’s. The advantage of Marbury is that his comes off the books next summer, which makes him somewhat valuable as trade bait.
With the hiring of coach Mike D’Antoni, expect big changes in style of play. It should be interesting to see if Eddy Curry gets any minutes at all, as D’Antoni typically favors smaller, more versatile players. Keep that in mind when checking out starting five
Projected starting five: C David Lee, PF Zach Randolph, SF Jared Jeffries, PG Chris Duhon, SG Jamal Crawford.
Predicted Final Division Standings:
1. Boston Celtics 58-24
2. Philadelphia 76ers 47-35
3. Toronto Raptors 43-39
4. New Jersey Nets 29-53
5. New York Knicks 19-63
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