Atlantic Division Preview: Celtics Still Tops, But by How Much?

Yes, we all know that the Boston Celtics are good, and are probably the best team in the Atlantic, but with the new additions by the Raptors, could they realistically give the Celtics a run at the division? Lets look at the division preview.

1. Boston Celtics

Yes, we all know that the Celtics are the powerhouse of the Atlantic, but is that the case this year? In my mind, there is no doubt that they are. The Celtics have the tools to maybe even win the title in the East. With the addition of Rasheed Wallace, the Celtics have increased their depth and have overall improved their team. With the big three healthy, it will be hard to dethrone the Celtics as the Atlantic division champs.

2. Toronto Raptors

The Raptors have had the busiest off-season in the division and maybe even the league so far. With the additions of Hedo Turkoglu, Jarrett Jack, DeMar DeRozan, and other additions to their bench the Raptors have put themselves in a good position to challenge the Celtics. With a healthy Jose Calderon and Chris Bosh the Raptors should be able to contend in the East.

3. Phillidelphia 76ers

Yes, the Sixers lost Andre Miller. Yes, they now do not have a dominant floor leader. But, Elton Brand is healthy, and Andre Igoudala is only getting better. With rising stars and a deep bench, the Sixers should be a playoff team, but not a contender.

4. New York Knicks

What can I say about the Knicks: They have the talent, but not the chemistry. If they do end up resigning David Lee and Nate Robinson, this team isn't bad on paper. But the inability to work together hurts them. Yes, Al Harrington can score, but he takes about half of their shots. The only real bright spot on this team is Wilson Chandler. The rest, well lets just say it's a mess.

5. New Jersey Nets

Yikes. Vince Carter is gone: so are the Nets playoff hopes. Devin Harris and Courtney Lee need some help here. Yes, Devin Harris is perhaps the best point guard in the East but who else does he have. With useless players like Yi Jillian, look for the Nets to have a long season.