NBA: Predicting The 2016-17 Eastern Conference Playoff Field

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Apr 23, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) takes a shot against Toronto Raptors forward DeMarre Carroll (5) during the second half of game four of the first round of the 2016 NBA Playoffs at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats Toronto 100-83. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Indiana Pacers

Projected Starting Lineup: Jeff Teague, Monta Ellis, Paul George, Thaddeus Young, Myles Turner

After backing into the NBA playoffs a year ago, the Indiana Pacers proved a ton during the postseason. Indiana nearly pulled off the upset of the Toronto Raptors in the first round and just got better this summer. Significantly better.

If it weren’t for the Golden State Warriors, you could make the argument that the Indiana Pacers had the best offseason in the NBA. Adding three rotation players, including two starters, will do the job. That’s exactly what the Pacers did by trading for Jeff Teague and Thaddeus Young, and then signing Al Jefferson in free agency.

Plus, there’s the potential that Paul George could end up being the best player in the Eastern Conference this season. And, no, that’s not a knock on LeBron James.

Next: No. 2

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