Last-Minute Lineup Adjustments for Every NBA Team before Season Starts

The 2012-13 NBA regular season is less than one week away. The preseason games are becoming more competitive, injuries are beginning to strike and all 30 NBA franchises are commencing the process of shaping their rotations.

With nothing set in stone, however, there is still time for coaches to work their last-minute magic. With this being known, the following slides will illustrate what changes should be made.

Each NBA team is aiming to reach the postseason. Some even view merely making it to the NBA's big dance as underachieving, which would suggest that is of the utmost importance that they establish the proper rotations early and develop chemistry throughout the season.

Fortunately for coaches everywhere, the following slides will offer insight into how to achieve such a feat.

Atlanta Hawks

Key Additions: Devin Harris, PG; John Jenkins, SG; Kyle Korver, SF; Anthony Morrow, SG; Lou Williams, G

Key Losses: Kirk Hinrich, PG; Joe Johnson, SG; Marvin Williams, SF

Key Injuries: Al Horford, right calf tightness; Zaza Pachulia, sprained left ankle; Jeff Teague, sprained left ankle

When the Atlanta Hawks traded Joe Johnson to the Brooklyn Nets, many viewed the move as their entering the rebuilding process. With the acquisitions of Lou Williams, Kyle Korver, Anthony Morrow and John Jenkins, however, it's clear where the team is actually headed.

Legitimacy.

The Hawks may have been able to make the Eastern Conference semifinals in three of the past four seasons, but there is a reason they never made it further. While the trio of Johnson, Josh Smith and Al Horford was on par with the best of the league, they had nothing around them.

Even with a rising Jeff Teague in 2012, one could argue that the next in line in terms of individual greatness were Willie Green and an injury-ridden Tracy McGrady. Either them or Zaza Pachulia.

By replacing Johnson with a plethora of depth on the perimeter, the Hawks have become a legitimate threat to the Eastern Conference crown. Although it may take a year or two for the team to hit that type of stride, both Smith and Horford are Top 25 players in the game.

The question is, who will be playing the perimeter positions alongside them?

Devin Harris and Jeff Teague will compete for the role of starting point guard. Anthony Morrow and Lou Williams should do the same for shooting guard, while Kyle Korver will likely take over as small forward.

But what is there behind Korver? DeShawn Stevenson could play the role of a reserve, with Morrow also capable of shifting over.

The question for Larry Drew to answer, however, is whether or not he will shift Smith to the 3 and Horford to the 4 at times during the season. Although they have acclimated nicely to their interior positions, both are better fit for the forward slots.

A last-minute tweak could be just what the team needs to maximize the outstanding talent on their roster.

Boston Celtics

Key Additions: Leandro Barbosa, SG; Jeff Green, F; Courtney Lee, G/F; Darko Milicic, C; Jared Sullinger, PF; Jason Terry, SG

Key Losses: Ray Allen, SG; Mickael Pietrus, G/F; Greg Stiemsma, C

Key Injuries: Avery Bradley, dislocated shoulder

With such a plethora of depth on the perimeter, it would be obvious to choose the Boston Celtics' need to determine playing time for the likes of Paul Pierce, Jason Terry, Courtney Lee, Leandro Barbosa and Jeff Green. The truth of the matter is, the Celtics' greatest question marks come with the frontcourt.

Specifically who will play center.

According to Paul Flannery of WEEI 93.7 FM, head coach Doc Rivers plans on utilizing "multiple lineups." One of the proposed rotations would see Kevin Garnett shift back to power forward and Darko Milicic start at center.

Yes, that Darko Milicic.

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"We can slide Kevin [Garnett] over to the four to start games. The first half of the year I don’t know if that’s a bad thing, so Kevin doesn't have a wrestling match the entire season with the bigs," Rivers said. "There’s a lot of thoughts. We may go to a transitional starting lineup, have three different starting lineups. We’ve put a lot of thought into it, we’ll just figure it out."

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Starting Milicic was probably the last thing that Celtics fans expected. It remains a possibility, however, which calls into question what the Celtics actually plan on doing with their interior pairing.

Brandon Bass and Jared Sullinger have both impressed at power forward, while Jeff Green has stood out at both forward positions. Although Milicic could play the 5, KG has thrived at center before.

So where does everyone go? With the way things have been going thus far, the decided upon rotation may be the one that we'd least expect to see.

Brooklyn Nets

Key Additions: Andray Blatche, C; Keith Bogans, SG; Josh Childress, SF; Reggie Evans, PF; Joe Johnson, SG; Tornike Shengelia, F; Mirza Teletovic, PF; C.J. Watson, PG

Key Losses: Jordan Farmar; PG; Gerald Green, SF; Anthony Morrow, SG

Key Injuries: N/A

Per a report via Stefan Bondy of The New York Daily News, the Nets are prepared to move Gerald Wallace to the 4 when faced with the "hybrid power forwards." This, of course, is in reference to teams such as the Miami Heat and New York Knicks who have begun to move the likes of LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony to power forward.

Brooklyn Nets head coach Avery Johnson is open to the idea.

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Everything is an open book for us,” Johnson said. “I’m not saying if we will or we won’t. I think my job is to make the best decisions to give us the best chance to win. And if that’s something that we need to do, we will. If we don’t need to do it, we won’t. We’ll just have to see how it goes.

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It's difficult to oppose such a move considering the direction the league has taken with going small and maximizing their athleticism and explosiveness. One has to wonder whether or not leaving Kris Humphries in the sideline is actually the best move, though.

Although Brook Lopez is the better offensive player, Humphries' rebounding and defensive tenacity may fit the smaller lineup better than one would expect.

As we hastily approach the regular season, this is a decision that Coach Johnson must make. While Lopez would offer a quality offensive player at center, he's a poor defender who would not aid Wallace in terms of help-side defense.

With just under a week until the Nets play 'Melo and the Knicks, it's safe to say that we'll get an early look at whether or not the team commits to Wallace at the 4.

Charlotte Bobcats

Key Additions: Ben Gordon, SG; Brendan Haywood, C; Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, SF; Ramon Sessions, PG

Key Losses: D.J. Augustin, PG; Corey Maggette, SF

Key Injuries: Byron Mullens, knee bruise

The Charlotte Bobcats are a team who must build for the future. Although they have improved marginally in terms of the talent on their roster, they remain a non-contender in the Eastern Conference until their current core develops.

That core consists of Kemba Walker, Gerald Henderson, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Bismack Biyombo and Byron Mullens. To guide those young players in their progression are veterans Ben Gordon, Brendan Haywood and Ramon Sessions.

It no longer appears as if the Bobcats are walk-overs, does it?

The main question for head coach Mike Dunlap will be whether or not he should start his young players over their veteran counterparts. Examples of such positional battles include Kemba Walker and Ramon Sessions at the point, Ben Gordon and Gerald Henderson at the 2 and Byron Mullens and Brendan Haywood at center.

For the team to win games, starting the veterans may be the best course of action. To build for the future, however, starting the likes of Walker, Henderson and Mullens would clearly be the smartest move to make.

Discovering the proper balance will be the key to the team's progression.

Chicago Bulls

Key Additions: Marco Belinelli, SG; Kirk Hinrich, PG; Nazr Mohammed, C; Nate Robinson, PG; Marquis Teague, PG

Key Losses: Omer Asik, C; Ronnie Brewer, SG; Kyle Korver, SF; John Lucas III, PG; C.J. Watson, PG

Key Injuries: Kirk Hinrich, strained groin; Derrick Rose, torn ACL

Are you concerned about Luol Deng's injured left wrist? Don't be. According to Bryan Crawford of NBC Chicago, Deng will destroy any who ask him about that non-issue.

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I have to say that it’s the most annoying question -- I’m going to be honest and say it. I keep saying my wrist is fine but I keep getting asked about it. I don’t know what else I can say," Deng told NBC Chicago on Monday. "I think I'll paint 'my wrist is fine' on my car so every time I drive, everyone can see it. Maybe they'll put it on the Jumbotron at the United Center.

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With that being said, there is another Chicago Bulls star that is not as fortunate with his injury. That man, of course, is 2011 league MVP Derrick Rose.

With Rose projected to miss up to the entire regular season due to a torn ACL, there is a chance that the Bulls will have to wait on their star until the postseason. This beckons the number one question for the team, which is who can fill the point guard void best?

Kirk Hinrich, Nate Robinson or rookie Marquis Teague?

With Hinrich once again sidelined by injury, it appears as if Robinson is the best option here. This shouldn't concern fans too much, as the 5'9" dunk artist posted a reputable 18.05 PER in 2012 and averaged a career-high 4.5 assists per game in just 23.5 minutes of action.

To say that Robinson has finally discovered his niche in the league would be right on point. Speaking of "point," that's exactly where head coach Tom Thibodeau must allow him to start in Rose's absence.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Key Additions: C.J. Miles, G/F; Dion Waiters, SG; Tyler Zeller, C

Key Losses: Antawn Jamison, PF; Anthony Parker, SG

Key Injuries: Daniel Gibson, mild concussion

You want a last-minute roster alteration? Try a full three spots in the starting lineup being up for grabs in Cleveland.

Jason Lloyd of Ohio.com reports that the Cleveland Cavaliers have not been blown away by any one individual player at positions other than point guard and center. Don't believe him? Ask head coach Byron Scott why he started Tyler Zeller in last night's preseason game against the Indiana Pacers.

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[Starting Tyler Zeller] lets all these young guys know that there are two spots that are taken: Kyrie and Andy," Cavs coach Byron Scott said. "The other three are still up for grabs. That still is true right now.

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That leaves shooting guard, small forward and power forward all up for grabs. With rookies, second year players and 25-and-under veterans all contending for these slots in the starting lineup, it's not too difficult to imagine why there are position battles.

At shooting guard, rookie Dion Waiters is competing with the recently acquired C.J. Miles. At small forward, Miles is once again in the running as he battles Alonzo Gee for the rights to start.

As for power forward, the recently started Zeller will be going up against second-year defensive standout Tristan Thompson.

There are more questions than answers in Cleveland. At some point during the next six days, Scott will need to make a decision about who will be where.

The Cavaliers open their season on October 30th at home against the Washington Wizards.

Dallas Mavericks

Key Additions: Elton Brand, PF; Darren Collison, PG; Dahntay Jones, SG; Chris Kaman, C; O.J. Mayo, SG

Key Losses: Brendan Haywood, C; Jason Kidd, PG; Ian Mahinmi, C; Jason Terry, SG

Key Injuries: Chris Kaman, calf strain; Dirk Nowitzki, knee surgery; Brandan Wright, left ankle

The Dallas Mavericks' roster has been revamped as much as any other team in the NBA. With three starters departing and a potential four being signed this offseason, the Mavs are in position for complete shift in identity.

Whether that becomes a full-time change or not is debatable. For the next month or so, however, there is an indefinite alteration in the works.

That, of course, comes by virtue of Dirk Nowitzki being sidelined as he recovers from knee surgery (via Dallas Mavericks' Twitter).

With this being known, it is imperative that the Mavericks make the proper adjustments to fill his void. Veteran power forward Elton Brand should be able to fill in for virtually 30 minutes a night, while Brandan Wright should continue his outstanding efficiency in the role of a reserve.

That is, if he can recover from Wednesday's left ankle injury (via Earl K. Snead). Thankfully, Jae Crowder has been impressing in a major way.

Outside of replacing Nowitzki, the Mavs must also find a balance between O.J. Mayo and Dahntay Jones at shooting guard. Both players are capable of contributing in a high volume of minutes, with Mayo having become familiar to the role of sixth man.

To maximize his star potential, however, the Mavericks must start Mayo and utilize Jones in 2/3 hybrid role.

Denver Nuggets

Key Additions: Andre Iguodala, G/F; Anthony Randolph, PF

Key Losses: Arron Afflalo, SG; Al Harrington, PF;

Key Injuries: Wilson Chandler, hip surgery

The Denver Nuggets have a stacked perimeter with what may not be enough minutes to pass around. Fortunately for head coach George Karl, it appears as if he has already decided upon who will be the starting center.

According to Adrian Dater of The Denver Post, it may not be who you expect.

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Kosta [Koufos] is probably our most fundamentally sound big guy. He knows what we want better than the other guys," [head coach George] Karl said.

"He did a great job with his body. He had knee surgery, and he came back probably healthier and stronger than last year. Most guys (with) injuries, they kind of get out of shape. But he's stronger.

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That's right, folks. Kosta Koufos has the inside track over JaVale McGee and Timofey Mozgov to be the team's starting center in 2012-13.

This still leaves the perimeter wide open, where Andre Iguodala, Danilo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler all command starter's minutes. They all happen to play the same position, as well, at small forward.

After experimenting this preseason, it appears as if Karl may go with Iggy at the 2 and Gallo at the 3. By the time the season begins, however, everything could change as Chandler returns from hip surgery.

Properly placing his perimeter players could determine how successful the Denver franchise actually is in 2013.

Detroit Pistons

Key Additions: Andre Drummond, C; Kim English, SG; Corey Maggette, SF

Key Losses: Ben Gordon, SG

Key Injuries: Corey Maggette, strained left calf

Amongst their local fanbase, this year's Detroit Pistons have rather high expectations. Although missing the postseason would not be a devastating turn of events, there is an internal theory that the Pistons could compete for the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference.

In order to achieve said feat, the team must find the answer to the one question that no one seems to know: who will play the 4?

According to David Mayo of Michigan Live, the Pistons are weighing all options at power forward. One of those possibilities is to pair team scoring, rebounding and steals leader Greg Monroe with rookie Andre Drummond.

Lawrence Frank simply needs to see more before he makes a move.

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The thing is, right now, Andre [Drummond] obviously was really good last night," [head coach] Lawrence Frank said today, before the Pistons traveled to Toronto for the first of a back-to-back Friday, followed by a Saturday game at Milwaukee.  "But it's like for every young player, it's one of those every-day deals.

The problem we have now is we have four power forwards and we have to give each of those guys a chance," Frank said.  "Based on what we've seen in practice, we have a pretty good feel for where each guy is at.  At some point, [Drummond and Monroe] could definitely come about.  But we still have to evaluate our other fours and compare it.

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There is no way around how much upside the tandem of Drummond and Monroe possesses. After all, that's the exact reason that the Pistons selected Drummond with the ninth overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft.

The question is, when will Frank feel comfortable enough with his rookie out of Connecticut to bring him into the starting lineup? More importantly, who will start at power forward if he and Monroe are not paired together?

Major questions for the Pistons with an October 31st season opener against the Houston Rockets just days away.

Golden State Warriors

Key Additions: Harrison Barnes, SF; Andrew Bogut, C; Festus Ezeli, C; Jarrett Jack, PG; Carl Landry, PF

Key Losses: Nate Robinson, PG; Dorell Wright, SF

Key Injuries: Andrew Bogut, fractured left ankle; Stephen Curry, sprained right ankle

According to a press release via the Golden State Warriors, Andrew Bogut has no timetable on his return to action.

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Warriors center Andrew Bogut met with Dr. Richard Ferkel at the team’s practice in Los Angeles [October 20] for a scheduled follow-up consultation on Bogut’s surgically repaired left ankle. Following the examination, Dr. Ferkel concluded that Andrew is continuing to make progress on the rehabilitation schedule that was outlined immediately following his surgery [performed by Ferkel on April 27, 2012] and that there have been no setbacks. While the results of today’s examination were positive and Bogut remains on his rehab schedule, the exact date of his return to full basketball activity has not been determined. 

Bogut and the team are not setting any deadlines or time tables and the plan remains as it has been from the outset: Bogut will return to action when his ankle is 100%.

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What this means for the Warriors is that they could be forced to start rookie Festus Ezeli or underwhelming veteran Andris Biedrins in Bogut's absence. Another alternative could be to start David Lee at center while Carl Landry plays the 4.

Even athletic big Jeremy Tyler is an option.

In other words, the Warriors have more alternatives than they do answers. Despite Ezeli's solid preseason, this is a team that many have projected to compete for a spot in the 2013 NBA postseason.

With two rookies in the starting lineup, as Harrison Barnes plays small forward, the chances of such transpiring decrease significantly. This leaves head coach Mark Jackson in a difficult situation as a last minute lineup tweak is in store.

So which direction do you go in? The unproven or the underwhelming?

Houston Rockets

Key Additions: Omer Asik, C; Carlos Delfino, G/F; Terrence Jones, PF; Jeremy Lamb, SG; Jeremy Lin, PG; Donatas Motiejunas, C; Royce White, SF

Key Losses: Chase Budinger, SF; Marcus Camby, C; Samuel Dalembert, C; Goran Dragic, PG; Courtney Lee, SG; Kyle Lowry, PG; Luis Scola, PF

Key Injuries: Terrence Jones, tweaked left ankle; Marcus Morris, ankle sprain and bone bruise; Patrick Patterson, quadriceps strain

A year ago, the Rockets had 10 players that dominated playing time within their rotation. Those players were Kyle Lowry, Kevin Martin, Chase Budinger, Luis Scola, Samuel Dalembert, Marcus Camby, Courtney Lee, Chandler Parsons, Patrick Patterson and Goran Dragic.

Of those 10 players, only three are still on the team. Martin, Patterson and Parsons.

In their place, the Rockets have acquired seven players that are widely considered to be potential recipients of consistent playing time. Those players are Jeremy Lin, Jeremy Lamb, Carlos Delfino, Omer Asik, Terrence Jones, Royce White and Donatas Motiejunas.

Of those seven players, four are rookies and two have less than 50 games of experience as a starter.

To say that the Rockets had a roster overhaul would be an injustice. What the Houston organization did was as legendary as what the Los Angeles Lakers accomplished, the Rockets just built for the future instead of the present.

Or did they?

With Jeremy Lin running the show and Kevin Martin hoping to return to his 20 point per game form, some have higher expectations for the Rockets than others. At every other position, however, there is uncertainty.

The forward positions are as deep as any. Chandler Parsons and Patrick Patterson could reprise their roles as starters, but behind them are Jones, White, Marcus Morris and JaJuan Johnson.

At center, Omer Asik should end up being the starter after being handed a $25.1 million contract (via ESPN.com). Motiejunas could end up giving him a run for his money, however, as injuries may strike and opportunities could present themselves.

What does Kevin McHale have to address? Virtually every position on the floor.

Indiana Pacers

Key Additions: D.J. Augustin, PG; Gerald Green, SF; Ian Mahinmi, C; Sam Young, G/F

Key Losses: Leandro Barbosa; Darren Collison, PG; Dahntay Jones, SG

Key Injuries: Danny Granger, knee soreness; George HIll, hip pointer

The Indiana Pacers have one of the most solid starting lineups in all of basketball. With George Hill, Paul George and Danny Granger running the perimeter, David West and Roy Hibbert's potential for production on the interior is promising.

What isn't promising, however, is the fact that the Pacers have three players that could all fill the sixth man role. Although this may sound like a positive, it leaves a tough decision in the hands of head coach Frank Vogel.

Who will be the sixth man?

Tyler Hansbrough has built up a positive reputation in Indiana, but he is not necessarily a game-changing scorer. His mid-range game is respectable and average of 9.3 points in 21.8 minutes during the 2012 season are impressive.

Unfortunately for Crazy T, those qualities pale in comparison to the athletic gifts and well-rounded skills of Gerald Green. They also lack when placed against point guard D.J. Augustin, who can be expected to see upwards of 25 minutes a night.

The question is, will Vogel opt to run two point guard sets or move in a more athletic direction by pairing the high-flying Paul George and Gerald Green on the perimeter? We will know as soon as October 31st, when Indiana opens up in Toronto against the Raptors.

Los Angeles Clippers

Key Additions: Matt Barnes, SF; Jamal Crawford, G; Willie Green, SG; Grant Hill, SF; Ryan Hollins, C; Lamar Odom, F; Ronny Turiaf, C

Key Losses: Reggie Evans, PF; Randy Foye, SG; Kenyon Martin, PF; Mo Williams, PG; Nick Young, SG

Key Injuries: Chauncey Billups, torn Achilles

The Los Angeles Clippers have a starting lineup that consists of stars and quality role players. With Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and Chauncey Billups leading the way, the likes of Caron Butler and DeAndre Jordan can thrive on defense to complete the package.

After being swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference semifinals, however, it appears as if the depth behind them just wasn't good enough for the Clippers front office.

Reggie Evans, Randy Foye, Kenyon Martin, Mo Williams and Nick Young have all relocated. In their place will be Matt Barnes, Jamal Crawford, Willie Green, Grant Hill, Ryan Hollins, Lamar Odom and Ronny Turiaf.

With a revamped second unit, expect there to be a great deal of responsibility placed upon head coach Vinny Del Negro as he assigns players to their proper roles.

The number one question for Del Negro will be how he divvies up playing time at the guard positions. Chris Paul is clearly the starting point guard, but Jamal Crawford, Willie Green and Eric Bledsoe will all be competing for minutes in Chauncey Billups' absence.

Once Billups returns is when things truly gets interesting, as the Clippers look to placate their veterans get their future star, Bledsoe, involved.

Establishing that pace early is important for Del Negro and L.A. CP3 will take his 35 minutes a night, while Crawford will likely play roughly 30 of his own. How the rest of the minutes are divided, however, is a mystery.

A mystery that has until October 31st to be solved.

Los Angeles Lakers

Key Additions: Chris Duhon, PG; Dwight Howard, C; Antawn Jamison, PF; Jodie Meeks, SG; Steve Nash, PG

Key Losses: Matt Barnes, SF; Ramon Sessions, PG

Key Injuries: Kobe Bryant, bruised and strained foot; Jordan Hill, herniated disk

It really isn't an easy task to find an area in which the Los Angeles Lakers' roster is weak. If there is one question worth addressing, however, it is whether or not Devin Ebanks is a capable reserve for Metta World Peace at small forward.

If he's not, is it possible that the Lakers could explore a smaller reserve rotation in which Jodie Meeks plays the 3? Or could we see Earl Clark bring his athletic gifts to the floor for Los Angeles?

As we approach the regular season, that is a question which Mike Brown must find the answer to. After all, MWP has seen his minutes per game average decrease in each of the past five seasons.

Most recently, World Peace averaged just 26.9 minutes in 2011-12. What may be promising, however, is that the player formerly known as Ron Artest tallied 39.3 minutes a night during the postseason.

Regardless of this fact, over the span of an 82 game grind, World Peace will need his rest. After two years of inconsistency, could the 22 year old Ebanks right the ship in 2013?

Another question was pertaining to Jordan Hill, who suffered a herniated disk in his spine earlier this offseason. This is the same type of injury which forced Dwight Howard into back surgery, which implied that Hill might miss an extended period of time.

Hill is expected to return during the Lakers' second-to-last preseason game against the Los Angeles Clippers (via Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports).

Memphis Grizzlies

Key Additions: Jerryd Bayless, PG; Wayne Ellington, SG; Tony Wroten Jr., PG

Key Losses: Dante Cunningham, PF; O.J. Mayo, SG

Key Injuries: Tony Allen, "tweaked" knee

With Tony Allen going down with an undisclosed knee injury, the Memphis Grizzlies could be forced to limit his minutes early in the season (via Chris Herrington of The Memphis Flyer). If that is the case, Lionel Hollins' first test will be establishing the proper balance between Allen and the recently acquired Wayne Ellington.

Fortunately, this was going to become a task of his regardless of Allen's injury. This simply offers impetus to do so in the immediate future.

For those unfamiliar with Ellington, he is a former North Carolina Tar Heel with deep range on his smooth jump shot. Much like his fellow UNC alumni, Ellington is fundamentally sound on both ends of the floor and has great awareness for what is transpiring around him.

His ability to move without the basketball and shoot off the catch is just an additional bonus for the off-guard.

What this means is that Ellington is what the Grizzlies had hoped O.J. Mayo would become: a role player that can be utilized for his sharpshooting.

Another task for Hollins will be establishing roles for rookie Tony Wroten Jr. and Summer League MVP Josh Selby. Both players are explosive scorers who can create their own shot or facilitate their teammates.

With Mike Conley Jr. and Jerryd Bayless running the point, however, it will be interesting to see how they are acclimated into the rotation.

Miami Heat

Key Additions: Ray Allen, SG; Rashard Lewis, SF

Key Losses: Ronny Turiaf, C

Key Injuries: N/A

In case you fell off of the grid for a calendar year, the Miami Heat won the 2012 NBA championship. They did so with a mix of elite play from their stars and unparalleled shooting for perimeter scorers.

That recipe for success appears to be approaching a new level of efficiency with the offseason additions of Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis. In other words, the Heat just became a better on-paper team than they were a year ago.

We're already under the assumption that the Heat will go undersized with their starting lineup. LeBron James has proven to be very effective at the power forward position, while Shane Battier has proven to be far too valuable to keep out of the starting lineup.

The question the Heat will face, however, is how they plan on making up their backcourt.

Conventionally, a team would pair a point guard and shooting guard together. With LeBron and Dwyane Wade both elite ball handlers and facilitators, however, the need for a point guard on the Heat is less than that of your conventional team.

For that reason, there is a question be asked. Is it possible that the best lineup for the Miami Heat would be to play without a conventional center or point guard?

Upon evaluating the potential of a Ray Allen and Dwyane Wade tandem, the answer is yes. Let's just see if head coach Erik Spoelstra agrees.

Milwaukee Bucks

Key Additions: Samuel Dalembert, C; John Henson, PF; Doron Lamb, SG

Key Losses: Carlos Delfino, SF

Key Injuries: John Henson, hyper-extended knee; Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, knee surgery

The Milwaukee Bucks have been on the cusp of glory for quite some time. Whether they have been led by Andrew Bogut or Monta Ellis, it always seems as if Wisconsin's favorite NBA franchise is left on the outside looking in come the postseason.

With an infusion of depth and skill players, however, there is a legitimate possibility that the team is able to overcome past deficiencies.

In order to do so, the team must determine who will take over the role of starting small forward. Up for the job are the likes of Mike Dunleavy, Tobias Harris and the currently injured Luc Richard Mbah a Moute.

The established veterans, Dunleavy and Mbah a Moute, are most likely to take over the starting role. The player that may be best fit for this team, however, is 20 year old Tobias Harris.

The former Tennessee Volunteer is a scoring forward who has excellent ball skills. He has an excellent motor, an improving mid-range game and quality finishing ability in transition.

Alongside the likes of Monta Ellis and Brandon Jennings, opportunities to do so will be at a premium.

Another question for the Bucks to answer is where their young frontcourt players fit in. Ekpe Udoh, John Henson and Larry Sanders are all high-quality shot blockers who have room to improve to elite status.

The question is, where will their minutes come from? With Ersan Ilyasova, Samuel Dalembert and Drew Gooden all commanding a high volume of minutes, that remains a question that only head coach Scott Skiles can answer.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Key Additions: Chase Budinger, SF; Dante Cunningham, PF; Andrei Kirilenko, SF; Brandon Roy, SG; Alexey Shved, SG; Greg Stiemsma, C

Key Losses: Michael Beasley, SF; Wayne Ellington, SG; Wesley Johnson, G/F; Darko Milicic, C; Anthony Randolph, PF; Martell Webster, SG

Key Injuries: Kevin Love, broken hand; Nikola Pekovic, pulled ligament in hand; Luke Ridnour, herniated disk; Ricky Rubio, torn ACL

The Minnesota Timberwolves have gutted, revamped and lost their roster.

They rid themselves of underachievers such as Michael Beasley, Wayne Ellington, Wesley Johnson, Darko Milicic, Anthony Randolph and Martell Webster. They replaced them with the likes of Chase Budinger, Dante Cunningham, Andrei Kirilenko, Brandon Roy, Alexey Shved and Greg Stiemsma.

Despite this massive overhauling, two injuries stood out amongst all of the action taken this summer. As for why, try the fact that the T-Wolves lost their best two players for a large portion of the 2012-13 regular season.

Point guard Ricky Rubio and power forward Kevin Love. It also doesn't help that Luke Ridnour and starting center Nikola Pekovic are nursing injuries, as well.

According to Jerry Zgoda of The Star Tribune, the two candidates to fill Love's large shoes are Dante Cunningham and Derrick Williams. Williams, who the Timberwolves took with the second overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft, doesn't appear to be emerging as the favorite as many expected him to.

Zgoda asked head coach Rick Adelman why that was, thus garnering this concerning response.

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I just want to see him play and be effective," [Rick] Adelman said of [Derrick] Williams. "I don't know what else to say. He's got to play both ends of the court. He's got to be more active, find out what he can do. We as a coaching staff have to put guys in positions to be successful, but then they've got to go do it.

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At least other positions have relative certainty.

With J.J. Barea likely to fill in for Ricky Rubio, the point guard position is solidified. After all, Barea averaged 16.0 points and 9.3 assists in the final month of the season and proved that overcoming injuries was all he needed to do to reprise his NBA champion form from 2011.

Once again, however, filling Love's void remains a high priority.

New Orleans Hornets

Key Additions: Ryan Anderson, PF; Anthony Davis, C; Austin Rivers, PG

Key Losses: Jarrett Jack, PG; Chris Kaman, C; Emeka Okafor, C

Key Injuries: Eric Gordon, sore right knee; Austin Rivers, sprained ankle; Jason Smith, shoulder strain

The New Orleans Hornets entered the 2012-13 preseason with expectations of developing team chemistry and beginning their push for a postseason berth. Unfortunately, all they've found is pain as Eric Gordon, Austin Rivers and Jason Smith have all been sidelined by injury.

In turn, head coach Monty Williams has been placed in the difficult situation of creating lineups without the luxury of experimenting with active players.

This creates a situation where Williams must name his starting point guard without being able to see Rivers and Greivis Vasquez compete for a full preseason. Although it was recent that Rivers sprained his ankle, neither of the ACC alumni had emerged as a favorite.

With Rivers injured, it now appears as if the Hornets must default to Vasquez.

At small forward, it is likely that Williams goes with Al-Farouq Aminu. The hope is that Aminu benefits from his time at the 2012 London Olympics and becomes more of an NBA player than just an athlete on the perimeter.

What Williams must determine is how short his leash will be with Aminu, as both Xavier Henry and rookie Darius Miller could fill in as potential replacements at the 3.

New York Knicks

Key Additions: Ronnie Brewer, SG; Marcus Camby, C; Raymond Felton, PG; Jason Kidd, PG; Pablo Prigioni, PG; Rasheed Wallace, PF

Key Losses: Baron Davis, PG; Landry Fields, G/F; Jeremy Lin, PG

Key Injuries: Marcus Camby, strained calf; Tyson Chandler, left knee sprain; Iman Shumpert, torn ACL; J.R. Smith, Achilles; Amar'e Stoudemire, ruptured cyst

The New York Knicks are victims of both a massive roster overhaul and a plethora of injuries to key players. With those two factors weighing this team down, it is fair to assume that the Knicks will be forced into experiencing severe growing pains.

It's equally as likely that the team will be forced into a situation in which they must experiment with a variety of lineups.

Amar'e Stoudemire will be sidelined for two to three weeks due to a ruptured cyst behind his left knee (via ESPN New York). According to Frank Isola of The New York Daily News, this means that Carmelo Anthony will take his place at power forward.

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I’m pretty sure I’ll be [at power forward],” [Carmelo] Anthony said on Sunday about the power forward spot. “I don’t have no problem. I’ve played it last year. I played four-five the whole summer. I have no problem playing that position.

"

The question is, who will start at the 3 if that were to be the case?

Unlike a year ago, the Knicks do not have the luxury of placing Iman Shumpert at shooting guard and Landry Fields at the 3. Fields signed with the Toronto Raptors this offseason and Shumpert will be sidelined until early January as he recovers from surgery on his torn left ACL (via ESPN New York).

In turn, this opens the door for sharpshooter Steve Novak and preseason standout Chris Copeland. So who will Mike Woodson choose?

If those questions aren't enough, Tyson Chandler has suffered a left knee sprain (via Frank Isola of The New York Daily News). The questions and injuries continue to pile up in New York.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Key Additions: Perry Jones III, F

Key Losses: Derek Fisher, PG

Key Injuries: Kendrick Perkins, left wrist injury; Thabo Sefolosha, quadricep strain

Eric Maynor and Reggie Jackson are currently in the midst of a battle over the role of backup point guard. For that reason, it is easy to shift your attention away from the other areas which the Thunder must decide upon.

Specifically, what is going to come of Perry Jones III?

PJ3 has posted preseason averages of 11.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists in an inconsistent 22.8 minutes per game. He's also shot 60.0 percent from the floor, although he has made just one of his seven free throw attempts.

Jones' responsible scoring creates the reasonable belief that he could improve the Thunder come the regular and postseason. With a lack of depth at small forward and the need for additional second unit scorers alongside James Harden, PJ3 could potentially drop in between six and 10 points a night.

Such consistent scoring could alter the identity of the Thunder entirely. If Jones III were to continue to produce at this level, the Thunder would no longer lack the necessary scoring depth to overcome off nights from their Big Three of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden.

They'd also offer Serge Ibaka a reliable offensive frontcourt mate when going to a smaller lineup.

As for the point guard battle that was previously alluded to, Maynor may have the inside track due to his veteran presence with the team. Jackson was impressive during summer league play, however, and continues to play well during the preseason.

During the Thunder's postseason victory against the Chicago Bulls, however, Maynor put up 13 points in 32 minutes. The battle may have been won.

Orlando Magic

Key Additions: Arron Afflalo, SG; Gustavo Ayon, C; Maurice Harkless, SF; Al Harrington, PF; E'Twaun Moore, G; Andrew Nicholson, PF; Nikola Vucevic, C

Key Losses: Ryan Anderson, PF; Chris Duhon, PG; Dwight Howard, C; Jason Richardson, SG

Key Injuries: N/A

The Orlando Magic may have had the most decimating offseason in NBA history. Not only did the team lose three-time Defensive Player of the Year Dwight Howard, but reigning Most Improved Player of the Year award winner Ryan Anderson was sent out, as well.

Starting shooting guard Jason Richardson and reserve point guard Chris Duhon also left Orlando for Philadelphia and Los Angeles, respectively.

In turn, the Magic will be starting at least two new faces in 2012-13. Shooting guard, power forward and center all have question marks, which leads to the possibility of starting Arron Afflalo, Andrew Nicholson and Gustavo Ayon.

Much like the Charlotte Bobcats, however, the team must ask themselves whether or not they want to bury their youth or start them. This creates possibilities for Ayon, Maurice Harkless, Nicholson and Nikola Vucevic to start.

It also opens the door for a player who will become a fantasy stud by year's end: guard E'Twaun Moore.

Although Jameer Nelson will likely hold onto the starting point guard job, expect Moore to shine whenever he's on the floor. With preseason averages of 12.0 points and 6.0 assists, the former Purdue Boilermaker should find his way into head coach Jacque Vaughn's good graces.

Keep the name E'Twaun Moore in mind as the roster is tweaked and altered one last time.

Philadelphia 76ers

Key Additions: Kwame Brown, C; Andrew Bynum, C; Jason Richardson, SG; Dorell Wright, SF; Nick Young, SG

Key Losses: Elton Brand, PF; Andre Iguodala, SF; Lou Williams, G

Key Injuries: Andrew Bynum, Orthokine therapy; Evan Turner, sprained ankle

Many Philadelphia 76ers fans are expecting the team to build upon the success they had one year ago. Although they may improve upon their regular season and postseason feats, there is one thing we must make clear.

This is an entirely different team than they were a year ago.

The Sixers let go of their three most established players this offseason as Andre Iguodala, Elton Brand and Lou Williams all left town. The remaining players worth noting are Jrue Holiday, Evan Turner, Thaddeus Young, Spencer Hawes and Lavoy Allen.

Only Holiday and Turner are guaranteed to start, with Hawes projected to finally overcome injuries and play out of position at power forward.

The additions to this team include Andrew Bynum, Jason Richardson, Dorell Wright and Nick Young. Bynum becomes the face of the franchise, while the other three players all command at least 20 minutes per game.

With such a stacked perimeter, it becomes difficult to answer a very important question: how will Doug Collins fit all of these players into his rotation?

Nick Young started this preseason at a rapid pace. Through four games, Young averaged 19.0 points with a slash line of .510/.571/.870. Through the final three games, however, Young's numbers dipped to 9.7 points on .458/.273/.857.

Dorell Wright was the opposite, averaging 18.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.7 steals with a slash line of .594/.471/.600 in the final three games after starting slow.

So who do you choose? Although Jason Richardson could start the season in the opening lineup, Wright and Young are potential stars of the future.

Who Doug Collins opts to make his sixth man and eventual starter could shape this season.

Phoenix Suns

Key Additions: Michael Beasley, SF; Goran Dragic, PG; Wesley Johnson, G/F; Kendall Marshall, PG; Jermaine O'Neal, C; Luis Scola, PF

Key Losses: Grant Hill, SF; Robin Lopez, C; Steve Nash, PG; Michael Redd, SG; Hakim Warrick, PF

Key Injuries: Channing Frye, enlarged heart

The Phoenix Suns had quite the eventful summer, acquiring the likes of Luis Scola, Michael Beasley and Goran Dragic. They also found additional depth in Jermaine O'Neal, Wesley Johnson and rookie Kendall Marshall.

Although these acquisitions cannot make up for the loss of franchise point guard Steve Nash, it proves that they are headed in a new direction. One of balance, athleticism and longevity.

In order to reach that level, the Suns must address two areas of their current rotation.

For one, the team must overcome the loss of sharpshooting big man Channing Frye. Frye will likely miss the entirety of the 2012-13 season after discovering that he had an enlarged heart, which is a life-threatening condition.

To fill his void as a reserve at both interior positions, Markieff Morris and Jermaine O'Neal will be tasked with said duties. Morris proved to be capable of handling the second unit power forward duties in 2012 and O'Neal has become a much better defender with age.

If both players can remain healthy, this season could be one of promise.

Next on the agenda would be Alvin Gentry's need to address the shooting guard position. Both Wesley Johnson and Shannon Brown are athletic enough to change a game, with Johnson having better size and strength.

Brown, however, is a much better shooter who has become quite the consistent player as his career has come along. After staring in 2011-12, it'd only be logical to allow him to reprise the role in 2013.

After all, the combination of Johnson and Michael Beasley on the perimeter certainly didn't work for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Portland Trail Blazers

Key Additions: Will Barton, SG; Damian Lillard, PG; Meyers Leonard, C; Ronnie Price, PG

Key Losses: Jamal Crawford, G; Raymond Felton, PG; Joel Przybilla, C

Key Injuries: Wesley Matthews, sore knee; Ronnie Price, right ankle sprain; Elliot Williams, torn Achilles tendon

Simply basing this projection off of their current roster, the Portland Trail Blazers are in a position in which their top reserve at small forward is Luke Babbit. As for power forward, Babbit may again be the guy they turn to for quality minutes.

The same player who averaged 24.6 minutes per game over the final month of the 2011-12 regular season and shot 38.4 percent from the floor.

The other options would be rookies Will Barton, who is more of a shooting guard, and Victor Claver, who has spent the past six years in Spain. Although both are skilled, neither offer a sense of hope for a team who some have placed postseason expectations upon.

When you have All-Star power forward LaMarcus Aldridge and point guard Damian Lillard, whom the Blazers selected sixth overall in the 2012 NBA draft, losing will sting. There is great promise in their current group of starters, which beckons a simple question.

Why haven't the Blazers acquired more reliable depth?

One player to be thankful for in that department is point guard Ronnie Price. Some believe that Lillard is just as efficient as an off-guard as he is as the lead-guard, mainly due to his smooth shooting stroke and swift movements on the floor.

This should create minutes for Price to facilitate the offense while Lillard plays in a lineup in which the Blazers go small.

For those curious, J.J. Hickson has secured the job as starting center over rookies Meyers Leonard and Joel Freeland (via Joe Freeman of The Oregonian).

Sacramento Kings

Key Additions: Aaron Brooks, PG; James Johnson, SF; Thomas Robinson, PF

Key Losses: Terrence Williams, SF

Key Injuries: John Salmons, personal departure

With the exception of DeMarcus Cousins at center, is there any position on the Sacramento Kings' roster that can claim stability? Although there is depth at virtually all positions, the defined role of a starter appears to be lost in Sacramento.

So who should be where?

Despite Thomas Robinson's productive preseason, it's clear that the Kings are better off starting Jason Thompson. This has nothing to do with minutes, but instead is a reflection on Robinson's need to become comfortable with the pace of the NBA game.

Thompson will fill the starting role adequately for a short or extended period of time, with his size on the interior benefiting the team in terms of rebounding and defense.

At point guard, the team must decide between Aaron Brooks and Isaiah Thomas for the starting role. Jimmer Fredette will be a quality reserve, but it is Brooks and Thomas who have the best chance at leading this team.

Thomas' energy and consistent production have made him a fan favorite. Brooks' veteran status, however, could make him the starter on an otherwise inexperienced Kings' team.

On the perimeter, we're likely to see Marcus Thornton at shooting guard and Tyreke Evans at small forward. With that being said, it is unclear whether or not Evan is comfortable at the 3, which could open the door for James Johnson to start.

Jason Jones of The Sacramento Bee offers insight.

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"Three guys [at point guard among Aaron Brooks, Jimmer Fredette and Isaiah Thomas] have done a good job," [Kings head coach Keith] Smart said. "No one has really separated themselves. Off guard [Tyreke Evans and Marcus Thornton], nothing really earth-shattering there. The two guys have done a great job."

"Smart said of the small forwards, "One guy is starting to move ahead based on what he's doing." That guy is probably James Johnson,who has provided the defensive spark the Kings have sought at the position in addition to a well-rounded game on offense.

"The (power forward) spot is kind of settled down," Smart said. Jason Thompson figures to be the starter there.

"

The potential starting lineup could look like this: Aaron Brooks, Tyreke Evans, James Johnson, Jason Thompson and DeMarcus Cousins.

Why Evans over Thornton? We've seen the latter run with the second unit in practice.

Your thoughts, Kings fans?

San Antonio Spurs

Key Additions: Nando de Colo, G

Key Losses: N/A

Key Injuries: Patrick Mills, sprained ankle

The San Antonio Spurs return the same roster that led them to the Western Conference Finals in 2011-12. Literally, the same exact roster with the exception of one minor detail.

They added Nando de Colo, who Gregg Popovich has called "another Manu Ginobili" (via Jeff McDonald of San Antonio Express-News).

With this being known, there really isn't anything for Popovich to change. The Spurs are healthier than they were a year ago and should have more balance in their second unit with Manu Ginobili leading Gary Neal, Patrick Mills, de Colo, Stephen Jackson, Matt Bonner, Tiago Splitter and DeJuan Blair.

It's scary how deep the Spurs are, isn't it?

Daniel Green should continue to progress as one of the better young shooting guards in the NBA. Tony Parker will continue his MVP caliber play, while Kawhi Leonard, Tim Duncan and Boris Diaw will make for one of the most versatile frontcourts in the game.

Leonard and Green will pace the defense, while Parker and Ginobili should continue their scoring and facilitating pace. Look for Gary Neal to emerge as the Spurs' Sixth Man of the Year candidate, however, despite the hype surrounding Mills and de Colo.

All Pop has to do is figure out how he's going to divide playing time amongst so many players. As if that's an easy task.

Toronto Raptors

Key Additions: Quincy Acy, F; Landry Fields, G/F; Kyle Lowry, PG; John Lucas, PG; Terrence Ross, SG; Jonas Valanciunas, C

Key Losses: Jerryd Bayless, PG; James Johnson, F

Key Injuries: N/A

The Toronto Raptors quietly had one of the best offseason periods of any team in the NBA. They addressed every need on their roster and acquired the necessary players to make a push for the postseason.

Already one of the Top 10 scoring defenses in the NBA, don't be surprised to see the Raptors make the playoffs in 2013.

The question for the Raptors is how they plan on utilizing the talent they've acquired. With DeMar DeRozan, Landry Fields and rookie Terrence Ross all on the perimeter, it is imperative that the team establishes who will start and which player will pair with point guard Jose Calderon as key reserves.

Due to Ross' uncanny ability to shoot the basketball, it should be clear that he is the best fit for the starting lineup. Although Andrea Bargnani and Kyle Lowry can shoot the three, the team needs a specialist to spread the floor.

As for why they must spread the floor, rookie Jonas Valanciunas is the perfect reason. He's also the greatest question.

Will head coach start Valanciunas at center or opt to go with Amir Johnson? Upon answering that question, we will know how quickly the team believes their star rookie can contribute on both ends.

Specifically on defense, where his 7'0" stature and tenacity would help improve an already outstanding defense. Having two seven-footers on the interior on offense sure doesn't either, does it L.A. Lakers?

Mike Ganter of The Toronto Sun offers insight into what the team may end up doing by starting Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan, Landry Fields, Andrea Bargnani and Jonas Valanciunas.

Utah Jazz

Key Additions: Randy Foye, SG; Marvin Williams, SF; Mo Williams PG

Key Losses: Devin Harris, PG; Josh Howard, SF; C.J. Miles, G/F; 

Key Injuries: Mo Williams, stomach ailment

The Utah Jazz are entering the 2012-13 as a team with plenty to build upon. After making the postseason by virtue of winning the eighth seed in the Western Conference, Utah addressed virtually every need they had this offseason.

They improved their poor perimeter shooting with the acquisitions of Mo Williams and Randy Foye. Marvin Williams provides more of the same, as well as being the athletic finisher and perimeter defender that the team had long needed to complement their elite bigs.

As we approach the commencement of the regular season, it is imperative that head coach Tyrone Corbin utilizes said players to perfection. Most significantly, Corbin must decide upon who will start at shooting guard between Foye, Gordon Hayward and Alec Burks.

Each brings qualities to the team that would benefit their postseason push. With that being said Corbin must start Foye for legitimate success.

Hayward will find minutes as he plays the role of a reserve at both shooting guard and small forward, where the depth is rather thin. Alec Burks could do the same, as the slashing scorer will see more minutes as his shooting improves.

Foye, meanwhile, is a veteran in the game and spent the 2011-12 season with point guard Mo Williams in Los Angeles. Now that both are in Utah, it would behoove the team to work off of their chemistry as they look to establish a quality perimeter.

Hayward is likely to start, but Foye is the best option.

Washington Wizards

Key Additions: Trevor Ariza, SF; Bradley Beal, SG; Emeka Okafor, C; A.J. Price, PG; Martell Webster, SG

Key Losses: Andray Blatche, PF; Rashard Lewis, SF

Key Injuries: John Wall, stress injury in right knee

With such a massive roster overhaul, it is fair to assume that the Washington Wizards will be an entirely different team than they were a year ago. This is going to be shown in its fullest form during the opening month of the season, as star point guard John Wall will be sidelined with a stress injury in his right knee.

Not the most promising start for a franchise with postseason aspirations.

For head coach Randy Wittman, Wall's absence is the first area he must address. With A.J. Price and Shelvin Mack both impressing during the preseason, Wittman must decide which player will take over as the starting point guard until Wall arrives.

Upon doing so, he can move right over to the off-guard.

Bradley Beal is a rookie with limitless upside. The Washington Wizards drafted with the third overall selection this past June, which suggests that they plan to pair him and John Wall as their backcourt of the future.

The issue is, a young man named Jordan Crawford just so happens to be available for the same shooting guard position.

As Carla Peay of The Washington Post reports, he's also capable of running the point in a shoot-first nature.

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“I mean it's an opportunity for everybody,” Crawford said. “John [Wall] is going to be down so everybody else has got to step up. Of course you're going to be excited. You're not looking forward to anybody getting hurt, thats not what you wish on anybody, but you step into his role.”

"

Coach Witmann has some major decisions to make in the coming days before his Wizards make their regular season debut against the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 30th.