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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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May 15, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (3) dribbles the ball up court during the second quarter in game seven of the second round of the NBA Playoffs against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. The Toronto Raptors won 116-89. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
May 15, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (3) dribbles the ball up court during the second quarter in game seven of the second round of the NBA Playoffs against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. The Toronto Raptors won 116-89. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Chicago Bulls

Projected Starting Lineup: Rajon Rondo, Dwyane Wade, Jimmy Butler, Taj Gibson, Robin Lopez

I would LOVE this Chicago Bulls team if it didn’t include Rajon Rondo. If instead of Rondo, the Bulls had more of a combo/shooting lead guard, the outlook on this team would be so much better. Maybe that’s just me, but that’s where I’m leaning with this Chicago team.

With that said, I still wouldn’t be surprised if they finished 5th in the East. They have the talent, especially with Dwyane Wade making the move back to his hometown. And you guess it. He’s the ultimate wildcard with this team. If the Bulls are going to make noise this season, and potentially in the playoffs, Wade is going to be the one element of this team that puts them over the top.

On paper, this starting unit looks like it’ll be able to compete with any team  in the East. Question is, will it translate on the court?

Next: No. 4

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