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NBA: Predicting The 2016-17 Eastern Conference Playoff Field

By Michael Saenz

Feb 1, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) guards Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Cavaliers won 111-106 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 1, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) guards Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The Cavaliers won 111-106 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond (0) high fives guard Reggie Jackson (1) after scoring during the second quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond (0) high fives guard Reggie Jackson (1) after scoring during the second quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Detroit Pistons

Projected Starting Lineup: Reggie Jackson, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Marcus Morris, Tobias Harris, Andre Drummond

When push came to shove, and I had to choose between the Hornets, Wizards, Bucks and Pistons for one playoff spot, I went with my gut. It told me that the Pistons, behind Stan Van Gundy, would make the leap this year in order to remain relevant in the Eastern Conference.

Reggie Jackson, Tobias Harris and Andre Drummond will all be better, most importantly. This team’s young core has all the talent in the world. The additions of Ish Smith and Boban Marjanovic won’t be overlooked either.

This team will get better off progression alone, but the team also did a great job of adding depth to where it needed it. Plus, are you betting against SVG?

Next: No. 7

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