Eastern Conference Power Rankings

9. Indiana Pacers

It is possible that they could scrape their way into the playoffs. Danny Granger is underrated, but he is getting closer and closer to a spot on the All-Star team. New addition T.J. Ford can help this team, but they need to resolve the situation with Jamaal Tinsley.

Indiana has a decent team, but if they make the playoffs, it will be tough for them to get past the first round.

10. Milaukee Bucks

They have a veteran starting lineup with Andrew Bogut, Charlie Villanueva, Richard Jefferson (who they were lucky to get), Michael Redd, and Luke Ridnour. Rookie Joe Alexander was one of the best players in the draft. But in the past few years the Milwaukee have struggled to get it together.

Prove me wrong, Bucks. I'd love to see them realize their potential, but I'm not sure they will.

11. Atlanta Hawks

The loss of Josh Childress will hurt. The Hawks have some good players in Josh Smith, Joe Johnson, Al Horford and Mike Bibby, but their bench needs a substantial amount of work. Another playoff run is highly unlikely in 2009.

12. Chicago Bulls

There are just too many problems with this team. They have too many guards, they still need a dominant post player, and Ben Gordon isn't happy that he is still in Chicago. Will Vinny Del Negro be able to motivate this team and get wins? The key for the Bulls is to make sure Derrick Rose gets a lot of playing time.

13. Charlotte Bobcats

Larry Brown is a Coach that I have a lot of respect for. However, he has just inherited a team that is often inconsistent. If anyone can make something out of this team, its Larry Brown. No disrespect to Adam Morrison, but I'll bet Michael Jordan regrets not picking Brandon Roy.

14. New Jersey Nets

They big 3 of J-Kidd, Vince Carter and RJ is no more. Instead the Nets have Vince Carter and a very young team. They are focused on landing LeBron in 2010, but if they don't, they will definitely regret trading RJ.

15. New York Knicks

Still way over the salary cap, the Knicks are not looking good. Reports from training camp are that Eddy Curry isn't in great shape. Look for David Lee to start, as Eddy Curry and Zach Randolph on the court together just doesn't work.

The signing of Chris Duhon will help but the Knicks needed to do a lot more in the offseason. New GM Donnie Walsh and Coach Mike A'Antoni are both excellent at their jobs, but don't have much to work with. Things aren't looking great.

I'd love to hear your opinions on this—please leave a comment and let everyone know what you think.

You may also want to check out my Western Conference Power Rankings.

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