Predicting the Eastern Conference standings to see where the Miami Heat land
10. Indiana Pacers (40-42)
The Pacers have always had a solid amount of talent on their roster. Domantas Sabonis is an All-Star caliber player, and they have a ton of solid depth surrounding him.
It’s boom or bust for Indiana this year, but adding Rick Carlisle helps their chances. If they start off hot, they could be play-in bound, if not, though, they could look to blow it up at the deadline.
9. Charlotte Hornets (40-42)
The Hornets surpassed a lot of people’s expectations last season. That being said, there’s some stiff competition in the Eastern Conference now.
It will be interesting to see if LaMelo Ball can take the next step this season. Regardless, Charlotte might go through some growing pains with their young core.
8. Chicago Bulls (42-40)
The Bulls made a ton of great moves this offseason. They added Lonzo Ball, DeMar DeRozan, and Alex Caruso to an already solid roster.
The chemistry might not be there from the jump, but they should play well as a team. The East just has too much talent this year, so clinching the playoffs is no easy task.
7. New York Knicks (45-37)
Adding Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier is great, but the rest of the East improved, too. Walker still has injury concerns and while Fournier is a great offensive option, it’s easy to argue that the Knicks got worse on defense.
Another jump from RJ Barrett could skyrocket the ceiling of the Knicks. Until then, however, they will be fighting to stay out of the play-in.
6. Atlanta Hawks (45-37)
Atlanta is coming off of an amazing playoff run. That being said, whether or not they can carry that success over to this season is yet to be seen.
Trae Young cemented himself as an elite NBA point guard, but the East is just so competitive this year. The Hawks will be one of around five teams competing to avoid the play-in.