2008 Eastern Conference Prediction: Teams to Make a Stand in 08-09

Oh boy, although the Eastern Conference was not as exciting as the West this season, I think that with the Draft, the East will have some umph in it next season. So here are my predictions. 

In this article I will name my prediction for the top eight teams in the Eastern Conference.

8. Atlanta Hawks (40-42)

I was really surprised at how well the Hawks did in the playoffs against the Celtics. However, I still believe that they are still too young and yet have not yet matured enough to beat some teams. Their starting five have absolutely no rings between them.

People were underestimating the Hornets because they have no experience, but what about the Hawks? Most of their team consists of rookies. However, they have a lot of potential and could possibly have a shot at a title in a few years.

7. Chicago Bulls (43-39)

It was a really big relief that the Bulls got the number one pick in the draft. But, I think that they also have experience issues. The Bulls' captains are Kirk Hinrich and Luol Deng, both of them combined have seven years in the league and neither of them have rings.

Leadership is also why I think they will only be in seventh place in the Eastern Conference. Somebody has to step up for the Bulls, They have so many players that can be "stars" Rose (or Beasley) Hinrich, and Gordon.

6. Washington Wizards (45-37)

For me, the main reason why I put the Wizards in sixth was because of their bench. I personally believe that their bench won't get the job done when they have a lead. Three out of their seven guys on the bench are rookies. They would have to do better coming on for the starters.

Then there's always the story of Agent 0. I'd have to see whether he can be as productive as before. This reminds me of Dwayne Wade, he had a season ending injury as well as Arenas. Wade isn't the same as he was, he just can't get to the rim. I hope that Arenas can make a full recovery.

5. Miami Heat  (49-33)

Welcome the new emergence of the "Big Three." It consists of Dwayne Wade, The Matrix, and Beasley (or Rose). The Heat will have a big season this upcoming year. The main reason why the Heat had such a bad season was due to injuries.

Now they have everybody healthy and the emergence of Mark Blount. He was the Heats' third string center the past season. Yet, when he was a starter he averaged 17 ppg. and about six rebounds.

If the Heat get Rose they will have probably the best starting five. Watch out for the Heat!

4. Cleveland Cavaliers (50-32)

To describe this Cleveland squad I just need to say two words LeBron James! That is all i need to say. He averages 30 ppg. and is arguably the best closer in the game. You just can't have a losing season with that man. He can play in any situation and he's always ready to play. He also is starting to be able to trust his teammates.

Delonte and Wally are a tiny concern for me. They are inconsistent. They need to always be on their game without slacking off. Also, were starting to see the Ben Wallace we all know and love, he is a big factor.

3. Orlando Magic (51-31)

Dwight Howard is no doubt the best center in the league. The reason why I like the Magic is because of their consistency. They were consistent in the past season and I think they will be consistent this upcoming season as well. Their front court is probably the best in the NBA. Hedo, Rashard, and Dwight are really good. Hedo, also was a good closer for them as he had a few shocking buzzer beaters.

2. Detroit Pistons (51-31)

As always the pistons are always contenders for the title. They are an all-around ball club. They have a strong offense and are a powerhouse defensive squad.

After watching the series against the Magic and the series against the Celtics, I was amazed to see Rodney Stuckey play that well. He knew he had to be the new Chauncey Billups and he played superb. With the emergence of Stuckey, the Pistons are no joke, as always. 

1. Boston Celtics (56-26)

The Celtics are just an amazing team. They have the best defense in the league and have three superstars on their team. After watching the Finals, I couldn't help to notice how Doc Rivers out coached Phil Jackson.

He was trying everything to get his team motivated and to be ready for the Finals. He is just an amazing coach. More importantly, I think this win gives the Celtics the ability to trust everybody on that squad. The Celtics will be more of a team with the emergence of Kendrick Perkins and Rajon Rondo.