NBA Preseason Power Rankings 2013: Eastern Conference
By Corey Young
May 3, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks point guard Devin Harris (34) takes the ball down court in the first quarter of game six of the first round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports
10. Atlanta Hawks
After losing Josh Smith to the Pistons in free agency. The Hawks will take a step back in 2013. However led by Al Horford they could be in the mix come playoff time but falling short.
11. Charlotte Bobcats
The of drafting Cody Zeller along with Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will improve the Bobcats. But the signing of Al Jefferson makes Charlotte a team that maybe able to put it together sooner than later. This year with all of the young talent I just don’t see them anywhere but in the lottery until they get more experience.
12. Toronto Raptors
Trading Andrea Bargnani to New York was a tough blow. But with Rudy Gay and the signing of Tyler Hansbrough, the Raptors could have something to build on for next years draft. Sharp shooting Steve Novak minutes will grow and we will see if he can make the best of them. The Raptors will play hard but it’s just not enough to get to the playoffs.
13. Boston Celtics
Even with all the trades they still have Rondo, Gerald Wallace, and Kris Humphries. They still have a ton of talent but Bostons best days are behind them as I can’t see them making the playoffs. They could fall even further if they trade Rondo. That is an option mid-season if they want to start stock piling drafting picks. Let the lottery begin.
14. Philadelphia 76ers
The sixers sealed their lottery fate when they traded Jrue Holiday. Drafting of Michael Carter-Williams and Nerlens Noel, who be injured for a good part of season, means they will be in the lottery again. But the 76er’s could be a formidable team later in the year when everyone gets healthy. This year will be Evan Turners time to shine, as he will be looked at as the leader.
15. Orlando Magic
The rebuilding officially started when Dwight Howard left. Although they did get Oladipo, last years roster just got a year older. Nothing to see here.Victor Oladipo may have the most upside of all the draft picks but it will take him time to get it together and with the Orlando Magic. Time is one thing he will have as the Magic will finish at the bottom of the eastern conference and once again hunting for a top lottery pick.