NBA 2008-9 Preview: Atlantic Division

The competition has improved within the Atlantic Division, but no team can keep up with Boston.

Boston Celtics

Prediction: 58–24 (LY=66-16)

2007-08 shot selection
24% Three-point shots .381 (5th)
40% Midrange shots .417 (5th)
34% Inside shots .613 (10th)

I say the experience counts and the hunger is still there. After all, they have Kevin Garnett.

I’ll have an article soon with their killer stats. Just incredible. Remarkably balanced.

With no solid veterans among their offseason pick-ups, question marks abound.

People saw what these three stars did for their teammates’ games over the course of last season. After a 67-win season, no one will question their age this year, will they?

James Posey absolutely played a special role on this squad and will be missed.
But this team offered him a special situation with which to shine as well. It wasn’t the same in Miami for James as it was in Boston.

Mercurial yet expressionless—okay, "stoic"—Rajon Rondo took a big step forward. He must work on his jump shot and free throws.

Kendick’s shoulder is still healing. Backup options for the Celtics at center are Patrick O’Bryant, Garnett, and Leon Powe.

Who steps up this season? Tony Allen has the inside track to break out. Leon Powe and Glen Davis both should step forward. Rookies JR Giddens (SG) and Bill Walker (SF) have the P word emblazoned on their foreheads. It looks like Darius Miles will get his chance. (Portland says, "#$%^& Danny •¶§∞¢£ Ainge!)

Remember…the Celtics are holding three aces. These three stars bought their tickets on the Lega-C Train. They all changed their summer routines to r est and celebrate. I wouldn’t make too much of it. They will be ready to go. Just don’t expect 30-3 out of the gate.

Doc says more rest this year for Paul and Ray. So watch for guys like Tony Allen, Giddens, Miles and Walker to get a chance to develop.

Philadelphia 76ers

Prediction: 50–32 (LY=40-42)

2007-08 Shot Selection
14% Three-point shots: .317 (30th)
48% Midrange shots: .381 (24th)
37% Inside shots: .615 (9th)

As you can see, they do not shoot well. An almost non-existent arc attack, and not that good even at midrange, they are the Philly Rim Rockers. Dunkmasters extraordinaire, they were second only to Denver.

I underrated them last season—by a lot. I won’t do that again.

All around good guy Elton Brand looks like a good fit for this team. As a top offensive rebounder, he joins a top offensive rebounding team. Their starting five of Andre Miller, Andre Iguodala, Thaddeus Young, Elton Brand and Samuel Dalembert are solid.

Louis Williams, Reggie Evans, Donyell Marshall, Theo Ratliff, and Marreese Speights off the bench are pretty good too.

Will Donyell Marshall and Kareem Rush help Louis Williams and Andre Iguodala keep defenses honest? Yes, they will help a bit. Boston has some new competition in the East.

Toronto Raptors

Prediction: 45-37 (LY=41-41)

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