Predicting the Eastern Conference standings to see where the Miami Heat land
5. Philadelphia 76ers (46-36)
It’s quite possible that the Philadelphia 76ers get a solid package in return for Ben Simmons, but that is yet to be seen. Until that situation is resolved, it’s tough to judge Philadelphia’s record this year.
Joel Embiid can carry them to the playoffs by himself, but they may not be the dominant regular-season force they were last year. It all depends on what they get in return for Simmons.
4. Boston Celtics (46-36)
Despite losing Walker and Fournier, the Celtics might have actually improved this summer. They replaced Walker with Schroder, Fournier with Richardson, and added some solid depth on top of that.
These moves will allow Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to completely control the show. They’ll battle with Philadelphia, Atlanta, and New York to secure a playoff spot.
3. Miami Heat (49-33)
The Miami Heat had an amazing offseason, and it should lead to a much better season than last year. The big three of Kyle Lowry, Jimmy Butler, and Bam Adebayo has the potential to be elite.
Lowry will help shore up some of their offensive issues while Butler and Adebayo continue to hold it down on defense. The Miami Heat are set up to compete for a top-three seed in the East.
2. Milwaukee Bucks (51-31)
Coming off of an NBA championship, the Bucks will be looking to have another great regular season. Considering they have a very similar lineup to last year, they should be able to do just that.
Giannis Antetokounmpo will be in MVP conversations, as well as DPOY conversations. They have the star power and depth to be a top seed in the East.
1. Brooklyn Nets (54-28)
Barring injuries, the Nets will be the best team in the Eastern Conference. Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving make up the most talented big three in NBA history.
It will be extremely tough to take them down, in general, this year, let alone in the East. They are the team to beat this season in the Eastern Conference.