NBA: Predicting The 2015-16 Eastern Conference Playoff Seeds

Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

3. Atlanta Hawks

Christina: Probably the surprise of the NBA last year; winning 60 games, and claiming the top seed in the East. Although they lost Demarre Carroll, they added some size and nastiness to their frontline with the addition of Tiago Splitter. No, the Hawks don’t have a team full of superstars, but the reason they were able to win 60 games last season was due to their ball movement and unselfish team play.

They exceeded expectations last season, but they still don’t have a closer, which might hurt them in the long run.

Michael: (Atlanta Hawks) Too many people are sleeping on the Hawks. Even though I agree that DeMarre Carroll is not someone that can be easily replaced, I also don’t think the Hawks will drop-off that much. I have them winning a little more than 50 games this season, which should be enough for a top three seed in the East. This team, when healthy, is still very dangerous.

Next: No. 2 Seed