NBA Podcast: Predicting Biggest Central Division Surprises and Disappointments

The Central Division may be missing its biggest star as the season begins, but that only opens the door wider for more intrigue

In this episode of "Basketball by Association," NBA assistant editors Ethan Norof and Joel C. Cordes are joined by lead writer Josh Martin to nominate which players will surprise, disappoint and excel this year.

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The Chicago Bulls eagerly await Derrick Rose's return, all the while wondering who will step up in his absence.

The Indiana Pacers believe that this is their year to take the division back, but is there a legit star among the sum of their parts?

The Milwaukee Bucks have NBA-capable players littered all over their roster, but how do they fit? Likewise, the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers have legit stars in the making, even as they continue developing their ceilings and supporting pieces.

Choosing from a deep list of very good players, we highlight who will write this division's story in 2012-13.

You can find our full team-by-team Central Division preview here.

Our Southeast, Atlantic, Pacific Division and team-by-team previews  are here.