2009 NBA Preview: Will The Celtics Repeat As NBA Champs? Part 2

Eastern Conference

1.  Boston Celtics

Can the Celtics repeat as champs?  Well, later in the article you will know my view, but I think this team will be tough to beat in the East.

Grade:  98

2.  Orlando Magic

Dwight Howard is the next best thing for the NBA, and he should lead the Magic to greener pastures.  With Rashard Lewis, Jameer Nelson, and Hedo Turkoglu, the Magic are one of the better teams in the entire league.

Grade:  97

3.  Cleveland Cavaliers

With the addition of veteran point guard Mo Williams, the Cavs should be primed for another Eastern Conference Championship run.  LeBron James will be the NBA MVP.

Grade:  97

4.  Detroit Pistons

Detroit has some good youth to mix with their veteran players.  The big factor for them is that they have been there.  I think they will as usual be a threat coming out of the East.

Grade:  94

5.  Toronto Raptors

Toronto made a good run last year, and I think Chris Bosh will put up MVP numbers and lead this team to at least one series win in the playoffs.

Grade:  92

6.  Philadelphia 76ers

Philly added Elton Brand, and if he can stay healthy I think they have a good enough roster to crack the post-season.

Grade:  91

7.  Chicago Bulls

Chicago struck gold when it acquired Derrick Rose via the draft.  Look for the Bulls to make a big trade for a big man, and push themselves into the playoffs.

Grade:  90

8.  Miami Heat

This team will be a Cinderella, meaning at some point the clock will strike midnight.  But a healthy D-Wade and Michael Beasley will be great for the Heat this season.

Grade:  89

Best of the Rest

9.  Washington Wizards  (87)

10.  New Jersey Nets  (87)

11.  New York Knicks  (85)

12.  Atlanta Hawks  (85)

13.  Milwaukee Bucks (83)

14.  Charlotte Bobcats  (78)

15.  Indiana Pacers  (74)

Breakout Candidates:

Tyrus Thomas, Bulls

Al Jefferson/Rashad McCants, Timberwolves

Carl Landry, Rockets

Rodney Stuckey, Pistons

Kevin Durant, Thunder

Rajon Rondo, Celtics

MVP

LeBron James, Cavs

Rookie of the Year

Michael Beasley, Heat

Most Improved

Rashad McCants, Wolves

NBA Finals

Magic vs. Hornets

NBA Champions

New Orleans Hornets