NBA: Predictions for the Eastern Conference in 2016-17

Mar 24, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) dunks during the third quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Brooklyn won 104-95. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) dunks during the third quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Brooklyn won 104-95. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
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7.NEW YORK KNICKS

Phil Jackson definitely made sure that people were talking about the Knicks this offseason. He added former MVP Derrick Rose (no working knees), 2013-14 Defensive Player of the Year Joakim Noah (turning 32 this season), Courtney Lee (still hasn’t moved past blowing the game winning layup in the 2009 NBA Finals), Brandon Jennings (might be better of going back overseas), and rookies WIlly Hernangomez, Mindaugas Kuzminskas, Marshall Plumlee and Ron Baker. These additions along with a healthy Carmelo Anthony and an improved Kristaps Porzingis could very well mean that there will be playoff basketball in New York again. If it doesn’t work out for Jackson and the Knicks I’m sure the New York Post and Daily News will let them know how they’ve failed.

8.WASHINGTON WIZARDS

Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

The Wizards were a series away from facing off against the Cavaliers in the 2015 Eastern Conference Finals, they followed that up by finishing a disappointing 10th in the East in 2016. The 41-41 finish led to the dismissal of Randy Wittman and Washington quickly settled on former Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Scott Brooks. Brooks could help John Wall ascend into superstardom, but it’s going to be up to the remainder of the Wizards roster to raise it’s play if Washington hopes to get back into the playoffs in 2016.

Next: These Teams Will Stay Home For The Playoffs