NBA: Preseason Ranking for the Eastern Conference

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Mar 23, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) reacts after a basket against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /

9. New York Knicks

Much like the Bulls, the New York Knicks look great on paper. They have the name recognition that teams seeking relevance covet. Carmelo Anthony, Derrick Rose, Kristaps Porzingis, Joakim Noah, etc.

Porzingis is clearly New York’s best young building block. Noah, provided he is healthy, is a good addition. Rose, until further notice, has to be considered a question mark. He has just suffered too many injuries and re-injuries to be considered anything close to a sure thing.

Carmelo Anthony will be coming off of his third Olympic Gold Medal, in what he called his last Olympic games. Anthony at times exceeded for Team USA, but endures his struggles as well. When Anthony got hot during the Olympics, it must have had Knicks fans salivating at the possibilities for the upcoming season.

If Anthony plays up to his abilities consistently, and has enough help, the Knicks could find themselves in the playoffs. But the Knicks must stay healthy. Noah played in just 29 games last season. Rose played in 66 games in his final season with the Bulls, but with his injury history he averages just 50 games per season.

In July, Rose called the Knicks “a super team.” The Knicks will have to prove that claim on the court, but if all of their pieces stay healthy, they should be fun to watch.

Next: No. 8