NBA: Preseason Ranking for the Eastern Conference

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Jul 29, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Dwayne Wade addresses the media during a press conference at Advocate Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /

10. Chicago Bulls

Speaking of the Bulls, they come in at No. 10 on the list. At this point, that puts them just outside the playoff picture top-8.

The Bulls are one of the teams that saw a major roster turnover. Gone is the former face of the franchise, Derrick Rose. In his place, the Bulls brought in the aforementioned Dwyane Wade and Rajon Rondo to join Jimmy Butler.

On paper, the Bulls look great. They have big names who have had success in the past. But like other teams who have added multiple pieces, the question persists: How will the Bulls play together? The Heat, for their own reasons, let Wade leave. Will the Bulls be the beneficiary? They will have the best chance to do that if Wade’s knees and overall health holds up.

Rondo is a nice addition as a true point guard, but he’s not the best shooter. New Gold Medalist Jimmy Butler excels on the defensive end, and has begun to come into his own offensively as well. Butler’s game will be worth watching. Yes, Rose is gone, but Butler now has two former All Stars at his side.

Wade’s overall playing time will be worth monitoring as well. He played in 74 games last year, but played in just 54 and 62 games in 2013-14 and 2014-15 respectively. Nevertheless, it’s always of interest when a franchise icon such as Wade changes teams after so many years.

Next: No. 9