Aug 22, 2014; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony on the sidelines during the third quarter of a game between the United States and Puerto Rico at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Which Eastern Conference team not in the playoffs last year, projects as going this season?
Michael Saenz: I would say the Cleveland Cavaliers, but that’s a cop-out. So I’ll say it’s going to be the Detroit Pistons. Of course this is assuming they re-sign Greg Monroe. I believe that this team is a lot closer to making the playoffs than their 29-53 record last season indicated. The hiring of Stan Van Gundy should also speed up that process. Give me the Pistons next season.
John Armstrong: New York Knicks. I’m willing to bet that Indiana won’t make the playoffs so there’ll be plenty of room. Add to that, that Carmelo Anthony has been in the playoffs every year of his career aside from last season, he’ll will the new regime into the 8th seed.
Morten Jensen: Cleveland, but that’s cheating. New York is the closest candidate, but I’d consider it a surprise if they made it. A team consisting of Carmelo Anthony and no one else, is looking at hard times.
George Middleton: The Cleveland Cavaliers (see above).
Bryce Olin: Other than Cleveland, is it stupid to think the New York Knicks will make the playoffs? I believe the Zen Master and Derek Fisher have a few tricks up their sleeves. I would be surprised if Amar’e Stoudamire and Andrea Bargnani aren’t with new teams by Christmas, which means the Knicks can finally start to make some progress with that roster. Plus, Carmelo Anthony is still a great player in the league. With a better offensive scheme around him, I would be shocked if he doesn’t become more efficient next season.
David Ramil: Other than Cleveland? I think Detroit might have a chance, based on Stan Van Gundy’s under-appreciated coaching. If Greg Monroe re-signs, Van Gundy will have a promising frontcourt that could harass teams defensively and provide a scoring punch as well. Signing Caron Butler and Jodie Meeks can provide a little veteran stability as well. But Van Gundy is the ultimate difference maker, applying the techniques that made him a success in Miami and Orlando; look for them to get in as an 8-seed and challenge the Cavaliers in the playoffs’ first round.
Brandon Osborne: Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavaliers will go from the lottery to the favorite for the NBA title. Adding LeBron and Kevin Love will give Cleveland the firepower it needs to possibly bring the city it’s first NBA title.