{"id":42704,"date":"2021-09-30T13:00:40","date_gmt":"2021-09-30T17:00:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/?p=42704"},"modified":"2026-04-22T17:13:14","modified_gmt":"2026-04-22T21:13:14","slug":"predicting-2021-2022-conference-standings-playoff-chances","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/2021\/09\/30\/predicting-2021-2022-conference-standings-playoff-chances\/","title":{"rendered":"Predicting 2021-2022 Conference Standings, Playoff Chances"},"content":{"rendered":"

The 2021-2022 season is just around the corner. \u00a0The draft is over, some trades have taken place, and most of the available free agents have been signed.\u00a0 \u00a0It is time to see where your team stands, heading into the season.\u00a0 Below, we will predict the conference standings.\u00a0 Some teams are locks for the playoffs, some teams will battle for that 8th<\/sup> seed, and some teams are simply building for the future, with no realistic chance to make the postseason.<\/p>\n

Predicting 2021-2022 Conference Standings, Playoff Chances<\/h2>\n

Eastern Conference<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Tier 1 – Locks for the Playoffs<\/h3>\n

1. Brooklyn Nets<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Brooklyn has the best big three in basketball.\u00a0 Kevin Durant<\/a><\/strong> is arguably the best player in the NBA right now.\u00a0 James Harden<\/a><\/strong> can make a great argument for a top 5 player.\u00a0 He sacrificed more than anyone else, and ended up with nearly 11 assists per game.\u00a0 Kyrie Irving<\/a> <\/strong>is easily a top 15 player, and can get to the lane and score at will.\u00a0 Add Joe Harris<\/a><\/strong>, and that could be the scariest top four in the league.\u00a0 Other key players:\u00a0 Patty Mills<\/a><\/strong>, LaMarcus Aldridge<\/a><\/strong>, Blake Griffin<\/a><\/strong>, Paul Millsap<\/a><\/strong>, and rookie Cam Thomas<\/a><\/strong> (27 PPG, Summer League Co-MVP).\u00a0 This team should win over 60 games.<\/p>\n

2.\u00a0 Milwaukee Bucks<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The defending champs return most of their roster.\u00a0 Giannis Antetokounmpo<\/a><\/strong> \u00a0is the reigning Finals MVP.\u00a0 Some think he is the game\u2019s best player, and he is no worse than a top-three player in the league.\u00a0 Their version of a big three remains intact, as Jrue Holiday<\/a><\/strong> and Khris Middleton<\/a><\/strong> are returning.\u00a0 The roster also returns Brook Lopez<\/a>,<\/strong> Donte<\/strong> DiVincenzo<\/strong><\/a>, and Bobby Portis<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 The loss of P.J Tucker<\/a><\/strong> could hurt, especially in the playoffs.\u00a0 But, we are talking regular season right now.<\/p>\n

3.\u00a0 \u00a0Miami Heat<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Miami has assembled a very impressive roster.\u00a0 The core three of the Heat are Jimmy Butler<\/a><\/strong>, Bam Adebayo<\/a>,<\/strong> and Kyle Lowry<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 That is a TOUGH core.\u00a0 But, the Heat also boast possibly the most impressive group of role players in the league.\u00a0 Sharpshooters Duncan Robinson<\/a><\/strong> (40.8 3P%) and Tyler Herro<\/a><\/strong> (36.0 3P%) can space the floor.\u00a0 Markieff Morris<\/a><\/strong> and P.J. Tucker bring toughness. Let\u2019s not forget Victor Oladipo<\/a><\/strong>, who averaged 20 PPG with Indiana and Houston last season, before coming to Miami.\u00a0 If Oladipo can return to form, this roster is really dangerous.\u00a0 This team is experienced and physical, and is built for the playoffs.<\/p>\n

4.\u00a0 Atlanta Hawks<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Hawks have established themselves as a top-four team in the East.\u00a0 They will likely challenge Miami for the Southeast Division title.\u00a0 Trae Young<\/a><\/strong> is a 23-year-old SUPERSTAR.\u00a0 Also returning, John Collins<\/a>,<\/strong> rebound champ Clint Capela<\/a><\/strong> (14.3 RPG), Bogdan Bogdanovic<\/a><\/strong>, De\u2019andre Hunter<\/a><\/strong>, and Danilo Gallinari<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Other key players include Kevin Huerter<\/a><\/strong>, Cam Reddish<\/a><\/strong>, and Lou Williams<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This team is deep and loaded.\u00a0 They have a great floor general, rebounding, depth, and shooting.\u00a0 They are a lock for the playoffs.<\/p>\n

5.\u00a0 Boston Celtics<\/strong><\/h4>\n

I think this team quietly improved this offseason, and has surpassed Philadelphia in the Atlantic Division.\u00a0 With Kawhi Leonard<\/a><\/strong> out in LAC, the Celtics have the best duo of wings in the NBA \u2013 Jayson Tatum<\/a><\/strong> and Jaylen Brown<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 And, even with Leonard healthy, I still could argue that these two Celtics are better.\u00a0 Losing Kemba Walker<\/a><\/strong> is a little bit of addition by subtraction, as this makes Tatum and Brown the clear go-to players on the team.\u00a0 I love Marcus Smart<\/a><\/strong>\u2019s game.\u00a0 He is a terror on defense, and a great teammate.\u00a0 Getting Dennis Schroder<\/a><\/strong> was a steal.\u00a0 The Celtics have a three-headed monster at center with Al Horford<\/a><\/strong>, Robert Williams III<\/a><\/strong>, and Enes Kanter<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This is a team to watch in the East.<\/p>\n

Tier 2 – Have a Chance for the Playoffs, but not a Lock<\/h3>\n

6.\u00a0 Philadelphia 76ers<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Picking Philly this low will raise some eyebrows.\u00a0 But, there appears to be a lot of uncertainties with the Sixers.\u00a0 The anchor is still there \u2013 Joel Embiid<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Embiid is coming off an MVP caliber season.\u00a0 Tobias Harris<\/a><\/strong> is an underrated guy on this team.\u00a0 But, beyond these two, there are many question marks.\u00a0 Ben Simmons<\/a> <\/strong>wants out.\u00a0 He had a down year, and his shooting hasn\u2019t improved, so how will this play out for Philly?\u00a0 Will he play for Philly?\u00a0 Can they get a fair trade to replace Simmons?\u00a0 They have good shooters with Seth Curry<\/a><\/strong> and Danny Green<\/a>.<\/strong>\u00a0 However, they are not deep.\u00a0 And without Simmons, do they have a point guard?\u00a0 I am not convinced this team is a lock for the playoffs.\u00a0 There are still too many question marks.<\/p>\n

7.\u00a0 New York Knicks<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Knicks had a great run last year, and they have improved in the offseason.\u00a0 Kemba Walker is a popular pick-up for the Knicks.\u00a0 He was a Big East legend, and Knick fans will rally behind him.\u00a0 Julius Randle<\/a><\/strong> is coming off a career year.\u00a0 RJ Barrett<\/a><\/strong> and Mitchell Robinson<\/a><\/strong> should continue to improve.\u00a0 Evan Fournier<\/a><\/strong> should start, and will only help the offense.\u00a0 Other key players include Derrick Rose<\/a><\/strong>, Alec Burks<\/a><\/strong>, and Nerlens Noel<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This team should make the playoffs, but, they are certainly not a lock this season.<\/p>\n

8.\u00a0 Chicago Bulls<\/strong><\/h4>\n

This brings us to my pick for the 8th<\/sup> and final playoff team in the East.\u00a0 The Bulls have their own version of a big three, with Zach LaVine<\/a><\/strong>, Nikola Vucevic<\/a><\/strong>, and DeMar DeRozan<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 These three can score a ton of points.\u00a0 Also joining the Bulls is an improving Lonzo Ball<\/a>.<\/strong>\u00a0 I expect Ball to be among the league leaders in assists this season, with these weapons around him.\u00a0 I am also a big fan of Coby White<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 White can put points up in a hurry.\u00a0 In addition, other key players are Patrick Williams<\/a><\/strong> and Alex Caruso<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This is a much-improved Bulls team, and SHOULD make the postseason, but not a lock.<\/p>\n

9.\u00a0 Charlotte Hornets<\/strong><\/h4>\n

I like what the Hornets did this offseason.\u00a0 Instead of overpaying for backup PG, Devonte’ Graham<\/a><\/strong>, they let Graham go to the Pelicans.\u00a0 Terry Rozier<\/a> <\/strong>and Gordan Hayward<\/a><\/strong> are NOT all-stars, but, both are CLOSE. \u00a0Rookie of the Year, Lamelo Ball<\/a> <\/strong>should continue to improve and dazzle fans.\u00a0 Mason Plumlee<\/a><\/strong> is a slight improvement at center.\u00a0 P.J. Washington<\/a><\/strong> and Miles Bridges<\/a><\/strong> continue to improve and look to be solid role players for years to come.\u00a0 I like the addition of Kelly Oubre<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 The Hornets also drafted two great prospects in James Bouknight<\/a><\/strong> and Kai Jones<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This team is loaded with athleticism, and should be one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NBA.\u00a0 The Hornets were knocking on the playoff door last season, and may be knocking a little louder this year, but definitely not a lock.<\/p>\n

10.\u00a0 Indiana Pacers<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Pacers have a nice starting five, but I am not sold on their bench.\u00a0 They have returning all-star Domantas Sabonis<\/a><\/strong> leading the way.\u00a0 Sabonis is only 25, and has quickly established himself as one of the best big men in the league.\u00a0 PG Malcolm Brogdon<\/a><\/strong> continues to get better and better.\u00a0 Caris Levert<\/a> <\/strong>gives the Pacers another solid scoring threat.\u00a0 T.J. Warren<\/a><\/strong> can score points in a hurry.\u00a0 The starting five is rounded out by center Myles Turner<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Turner\u2019s stats have been consistent the past couple of seasons, but he hasn\u2019t made a ton of strides.\u00a0 Hopefully, this will be a breakout year, as he is only 25.\u00a0 This is a solid starting unit, but the bench needs help.\u00a0 This team can battle for a playoff spot, but will likely be on the outside looking in.<\/p>\n

Tier 3 – No Chance of Making Playoffs This Season<\/h3>\n

11.\u00a0 Toronto Raptors<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Raptors are starting a new era, with Kyle Lowry moving to the Miami Heat.\u00a0 The core three of this team is nice \u2013 Pascal Siakam<\/a><\/strong>, Fred Vanvleet<\/a><\/strong>, and OG Anunoby<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Goran Dragic<\/a><\/strong> will bring a veteran presence, and will help with the ball-handling and facilitating, but does he really want to be there?\u00a0 Gary Trent Jr.<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0will provide some scoring.\u00a0 Scottie Barnes<\/a><\/strong> seems to be a great draft pick.\u00a0 This is a fun team to watch, but not a playoff team.<\/p>\n

12.\u00a0 Washington Wizards<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Wizards made some big changes, starting with trading Russell Westbrook<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 B<\/a>radley<\/a> Beal<\/a><\/strong> had an All-NBA season.\u00a0 He is constantly in the trade rumor mill, but actually seems happy in Washington.\u00a0 Kyle Kuzma<\/a><\/strong> should be able to score more points with the Wizards.\u00a0 Montrezl Harrell<\/a><\/strong> brings high energy.\u00a0 Davis Bertans<\/a><\/strong> shoots well and can space the floor.\u00a0 Hopefully, Spencer Dinwiddie<\/a><\/strong> can return to the 2019-2020 form, when he averaged 20.6 PPG, and 6.8 APG.\u00a0 This team has some nice pieces, but I cannot see this team making the playoffs this season, in a loaded Eastern Conference.<\/p>\n

13.\u00a0 Cleveland Cavaliers<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Cavs have three PG’s, two PF\u2019s, and 2 C\u2019s.\u00a0 Where are the wings?\u00a0 Collin Sexton<\/a><\/strong>, Darius Garland<\/a><\/strong>, and Ricky Rubio<\/a><\/strong>, comprise the PG stable.\u00a0 None are big enough to guard NBA wings.\u00a0 Kevin Love<\/a><\/strong> returns as one PF, and they added Lauri Markkanen<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 They re-signed Jarrett Allen<\/a><\/strong>, then drafted 7\u20190\u201d Evan Mobley<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 I think this team needs some roster tweaks.<\/a>\u00a0 Too many players play the same positions, which means some players will be forced to play out of position.\u00a0 And most positionless players aren\u2019t 6\u20191\u201d or 7\u20190\u201d.\u00a0 The Cavs need some wings, and will not be making the playoffs with this roster.<\/p>\n

14.\u00a0 Detroit Pistons<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Pistons are clearly a team building for the future.\u00a0 Cade Cunningham<\/a><\/strong> should start immediately, and be a frontrunner for Rookie of the Year.\u00a0 Jerami Grant<\/a><\/strong> is a borderline all-star.\u00a0 He has good size, and can defend and score.\u00a0 The starting five looks to be Cunningham, Grant, Killian Hayes<\/a><\/strong>, Saddiq Bey<\/a><\/strong>, and Kelly Olynyk<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This team has no chance for the postseason.<\/p>\n

15.\u00a0 Orlando Magic<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Orlando is another team that needs some roster tweaks.\u00a0 They have four PG\u2019s, with Jalen Suggs,<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Marlkelle Fultz<\/a><\/strong>, Cole Anthony<\/a><\/strong>, and Michael Carter-Williams<\/a>.<\/strong>\u00a0 I like their draft picks (Suggs and Franz Wagner<\/a><\/strong>).\u00a0\u00a0 Terrence Ross<\/a><\/strong> and Wendell Carter Jr<\/a><\/strong>. should get plenty of minutes.\u00a0 But, this team needs help.\u00a0 Expect the Magic to be a candidate for the top pick in the 2022 draft.<\/p>\n

Western Conference<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Tier 1 – Locks for the Playoffs<\/h3>\n

1. Los Angeles Lakers<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Lakers have a big three that is rivaled only by the Brooklyn Nets.\u00a0 LeBron James<\/a><\/strong> remains a top-three player and still can make an argument for the game\u2019s best player.\u00a0 His durability has been amazing.\u00a0 Anthony Davis<\/a><\/strong> is a top 10 player, and needs to stay healthy.\u00a0 The Lakers have brought Mr. Triple Double, Russell Westbrook, home to Cali.\u00a0 He plays with more energy than any player in the league.\u00a0 How long can he keep that up?\u00a0 The Lakers also brought in Carmelo Anthony<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Anthony is 37, but he still knows how to play.\u00a0 Other key players are Dwight Howard<\/a><\/strong>, Wayne Ellington<\/a><\/strong>, Malik Monk<\/a><\/strong>, and Rajon Rondo<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This is a star-laden team, with at least 5 future Hall of Famers (James, Westbrook, Davis, Anthony, Howard – and maybe 6, with Rondo).\u00a0 This team is built for the playoffs, with tough, physical veterans.\u00a0 And, I also think they win the West regular season.<\/p>\n

2.\u00a0 Utah Jazz<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Utah returns their core, and is poised for another big regular season. Donovan Mitchell<\/a><\/strong> is a top 20 player in the league.\u00a0 And center Rudy Gobert<\/a><\/strong> is right behind him.\u00a0 Bojan Bogdanovic<\/a><\/strong> is a third scorer with great range.\u00a0 Jordan Clarkson<\/a><\/strong> is a great weapon, whether starting or as a 6-man.\u00a0<\/sup>\u00a0 Mike Conley<\/a><\/strong> returns to run the show.\u00a0 Other key players include Joe Ingles<\/a><\/strong>, Rudy Gay<\/a><\/strong>, Hassan Whiteside<\/a><\/strong>, and Royce O\u2019Neale<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This team should win over 50 games again.<\/p>\n

3.\u00a0 Phoenix Suns<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Suns could challenge the Jazz for the second-best record in the West.\u00a0 Coming off a surprise finals appearance, the Suns return all five starters, led by superstar Devin Booker<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Chris Paul<\/a><\/strong> continues to make his case as a top 5 PG of all time.\u00a0 Deandre Ayton<\/a><\/strong> has developed into a force down low.\u00a0 Other key Suns include Mikal Bridges<\/a><\/strong>, Cameron Payne<\/a><\/strong>, and Cam Johnson<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 An underrated piece that returns is Jae Crowder<\/a><\/strong> (10.1 PPG, 38.9 3P%).\u00a0 The Miami Heat were not the same team last season without Crowder.\u00a0\u00a0 He goes to the Suns, and they make the Finals.\u00a0 It\u2019s not a coincidence.\u00a0 Crowder is a winner, and a great glue guy to have on your team.\u00a0 This team should win 50 games.<\/p>\n

4.\u00a0 Golden State Warriors<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Warriors should be back into the top four in the West, once Klay Thompson<\/a><\/strong> makes his return.\u00a0 Few players in the league offer his competitiveness, and shooting ability.\u00a0 Steph Curry<\/a><\/strong> is the reigning scoring champ.\u00a0 He is already an all-time player, and appears to still be in his prime.\u00a0 Draymond Green<\/a><\/strong> continues to be the ultimate jack of all trades.\u00a0 Andrew Wiggins<\/a><\/strong> catches grief, but why?\u00a0 He\u2019s a consistent scorer.\u00a0 Expect James Wiseman<\/a><\/strong> to make a big jump this year.\u00a0 This team also has Otto Porter<\/a><\/strong>, Jordan Poole<\/a><\/strong>, Andre Iguodala<\/a><\/strong>, and Kevon Looney<\/a><\/strong>, plus rookies Jonathan Kuminga<\/a><\/strong> and Moses Moody<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This is a deep, and intriguing team.\u00a0 This team can win 50 plus games, and will be a team to reckon with.<\/p>\n

5.\u00a0 Portland Trail Blazers<\/strong><\/h4>\n

This is sort of a toss-up between Portland and Denver, but I like Portland to finish 5th<\/sup>.\u00a0 Dame Lillard<\/a><\/strong> is still on top of his game.\u00a0 He is easily a top 10 player, close to the top 5.\u00a0 CJ McCollum<\/a><\/strong> had maybe his best season.\u00a0 Lillard and McCollum are the best backcourt in the league.\u00a0 They have a solid big in Jusuf Nurkic<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Norman Powell<\/a><\/strong> provides a great 3rd<\/sup> scoring option.\u00a0 Robert Covington<\/a><\/strong>, Larry Nance Jr<\/a>.<\/strong>, and Cody Zeller<\/a><\/strong> should fit in nicely.\u00a0 This is a top 5 team in the West, and a lock for the postseason.<\/p>\n

6.\u00a0 Denver Nuggets<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Everything starts with Nikola Jokic<\/a>,<\/strong> the reigning league MVP.\u00a0 He can single handily keep the Nuggets in games.\u00a0 And, 23-year-old Michael Porter Jr<\/strong>.<\/a> (19.0 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 44.5 3P%) is becoming a star.\u00a0 Once Jamal Murray<\/a><\/strong> returns, the Nuggets will have their own version of a big three.\u00a0 Aaron Gordon<\/a><\/strong> brings athleticism and scoring.\u00a0 Other key players are Will Barton<\/a><\/strong>, Monte Morris<\/a><\/strong>, and Austin Rivers<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 The Nuggets are a legit contender, with Murray in the lineup.\u00a0 Not having Murray will cost them some regular-season wins, but they are still a lock for the playoffs.<\/p>\n

Tier 2 – Have a Chance to Make the Playoffs, but not a Lock<\/h3>\n

7.\u00a0 Dallas Mavericks<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Mavericks aren\u2019t particularly deep, but they have a top 5 player in Luka Doncic<\/a>.<\/strong>\u00a0 Doncic can do it all, and is an MVP candidate.\u00a0 They need Kristaps Porzingis<\/a><\/strong> to stay healthy, and accept his role.\u00a0 That is a formidable duo if clicking.\u00a0 Tim Hardaway Jr<\/a><\/strong>. provides a third scorer.\u00a0 Reggie Bullock<\/a> <\/strong>provides shooting and depth.\u00a0 Beyond that, I am not sold on the remaining role players \u2013 Dorian Finney-Smith<\/a><\/strong>, Maxi Kleber<\/a><\/strong>, and Dwight Powell<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 This should definitely be a playoff team, but Doncic and Porzingis need some help to get out of the first round.<\/p>\n

8.\u00a0 Memphis Grizzlies<\/strong><\/h4>\n

This may raise a few eyebrows, with the Grizzlies getting in over the LA Clippers.\u00a0 But, I simply think they are better than the Clippers, who will be without Kawhi Leonard for at least most of the season.\u00a0 Ja Morant<\/a> <\/strong>looks great off the dribble.\u00a0 Once his shot improves, he will be really dangerous.\u00a0 I like their starting five, with Morant, Dillon Brooks<\/a><\/strong>, Kyle Anderson<\/a>,<\/strong> Jaren Jackson Jr<\/strong>.<\/a>, and veteran Steven Adams<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 I don\u2019t see a lot of depth, but that starting five is solid, and should be able to make it in as the 8 seed \u2013 but definitely not a lock.<\/p>\n

9.\u00a0 Los Angeles Clippers<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Paul George<\/a><\/strong> re-established himself as a top 15 player, after laying an egg in the bubble.\u00a0 But, after George, does anyone on this team scare anyone?\u00a0 Marcus Morris Sr<\/strong>.<\/a> is their next best player.\u00a0 Reggie Jackson<\/a><\/strong>, Eric Bledsoe<\/a><\/strong>, and Ivica Zubac<\/a> <\/strong>are nice players, but I am not convinced the Clippers can make the postseason, without Kawhi Leonard.\u00a0 They have a chance, and should battle Memphis for the 8 seed.\u00a0 But, I have them on the outside looking in this season.<\/p>\n

10.\u00a0 New Orleans Pelicans<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Pelicans are probably starting to feel the pressure from the hype train.\u00a0 Stan Van lasted one year.\u00a0 Players are getting traded.\u00a0 GM David Griffin might feel more pressure than any GM in the league.\u00a0 Zion Williamson<\/a><\/strong> is great, but he was hyped like a LeBron James.\u00a0 Brandon Ingram<\/a><\/strong> has been an all-star.\u00a0 Jonas Valanciunas<\/a><\/strong> is a major upgrade at center.\u00a0 Devonte’ Graham (14.8 PPG, 5.4 APG) comes in from Charlotte.\u00a0 Graham will be a solid PG, and shoots fairly well.\u00a0 Nickeil Alexander-Walker<\/a><\/strong> should start on the wing.\u00a0 Jaxson Hayes<\/a><\/strong> is a solid backup.\u00a0 Beyond that, I am not seeing much depth.\u00a0 This is an exciting young team, and has a CHANCE to make the playoffs, but I have them on the outside looking in.<\/p>\n

Tier 3 – No Chance of Making Playoffs This Season<\/h3>\n

11.\u00a0 Minnesota Timberwolves<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Wolves are an exciting team.\u00a0 They have one of the best centers in basketball in Karl-Anthony Towns<\/a>.<\/strong>\u00a0 They have a high-scoring backcourt with D\u2019Angelo Russell<\/a> <\/strong>and Malik Beasley<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Anthony Edwards<\/a><\/strong> (19.3 PPG, 4.7 RPG) looks like he can be a scoring machine.\u00a0 Patrick Beverly<\/a><\/strong> brings toughness and grit off the bench.\u00a0 I really like Taurean Prince<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 He is a poor man\u2019s Jae Crowder.\u00a0 He brings toughness, rebounding, and he can knock down open threes.\u00a0 This team has a nice top 6, but still needs help.\u00a0 They have a slim chance to make the postseason, but I think they are still a year away.<\/p>\n

12.\u00a0 Sacramento Kings<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Kings have some nice pieces, but will likely be on the outside looking in when it comes playoff time. The backcourt is good, but a little crowded.\u00a0 De\u2019Aaron Fox<\/a> <\/strong>is a star in the making.\u00a0 Buddy Hield<\/a><\/strong> is a lights-out shooter.\u00a0 Tyrese Haliburton<\/a><\/strong> looks like a future star.\u00a0 The Kings also drafted 6\u20190\u201d PG Davion Mitchell<\/a><\/strong>, who had a great summer league.\u00a0 That is three PGs.\u00a0 That is a little crowded, as all three probably deserve minutes.\u00a0 Harrison Barnes<\/a><\/strong> remains a steady contributor.\u00a0 Richaun Holmes<\/a><\/strong> is a solid center.\u00a0 I still think there is time for Marvin Bagley<\/a><\/strong> to develop into a really good pro.\u00a0 He is only 22 years old.\u00a0 Tristan Thompson<\/a><\/strong> can still defend and rebound.\u00a0 It just seems to me that this team is made up of pieces, that if some of these pieces were on contending teams, these pieces could push a contender over the top.\u00a0\u00a0 Players like Hield, Barnes, Bagley, and Haliburton.\u00a0 They aren\u2019t stars that can lead a team to the playoffs, but they are multiple pieces that could help a contender.\u00a0 Maybe a roster tweak would help.<\/p>\n

13.\u00a0 San Antonio Spurs<\/strong><\/h4>\n

It seems strange to put the Spurs this low, but they are definitely rebuilding.\u00a0 The backcourt is solid, with Dejounte Murray<\/a><\/strong> and Derrick White<\/a>.<\/strong>\u00a0 Doug McDermott<\/a><\/strong> is a nice shooter.\u00a0 Jakob Peoltl<\/a><\/strong> and Keldon Johnson<\/a><\/strong> should start as bigs.\u00a0 This roster is one of the worst in the NBA.\u00a0 I want to pick them lower, but I think having Gregg Popovich should be good for a few wins in the 50-50 games.\u00a0 The Spurs will be back, but how long will it take?<\/p>\n

14.\u00a0 Houston Rockets<\/strong><\/h4>\n

I think the Rockets may be slightly better than the Thunder, at this point.\u00a0 I like Christian Wood<\/a><\/strong> and rookie Jalen Green<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 Kevin Porter Jr<\/a>.<\/strong> and Daniel Theis<\/a> <\/strong>are solid.\u00a0 John Wall<\/a><\/strong> is their best player, and the Rockets are planning to hold him out, while they explore trades.\u00a0 Eric Gordon<\/a><\/strong> doesn\u2019t fit the timeline, either.\u00a0 I look for him to be traded.\u00a0 This is a team that is starting over, thanks to James Harden last season.\u00a0 They appear to have made a good pick with Jalen Green.\u00a0 Look for the Rockets to be drafting toward the top again next year.<\/p>\n

15.\u00a0 Oklahoma City Thunder<\/strong><\/h4>\n

I am not trying to be disrespectful, but there are players that will start for the Thunder that the average basketball fan has never heard of.\u00a0 However, everyone knows Shai Gilgeous-Alexander<\/a><\/strong>.\u00a0 He had a breakout season last year.\u00a0 He is the face of the team.\u00a0 Beyond SGA, the Thunder have a bunch of young up and comers, that play hard.\u00a0 The Thunder have great fans, and I believe the fans are patient and see that the future is BRIGHT.\u00a0 OKC is loaded with draft picks for the future.\u00a0 And, expect to see OKC picking at or near the top for the near future.<\/p>\n

Main Photo:
\nEmbed from Getty Images<\/a>