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NBA Southeast Division Outlook: Which Team Is The Favorite In 2016-17?

By Austin Albertson

Feb 28, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Kent Bazemore (24) is defended by Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) in the third quarter at Philips Arena. The Hawks defeated the Hornets 87-76. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 28, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Kent Bazemore (24) is defended by Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) in the third quarter at Philips Arena. The Hawks defeated the Hornets 87-76. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 6, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) gets the crowd into the game as he defends against Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) during the second half at Time Warner Cable Arena. Hornets win 108-104. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 6, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) gets the crowd into the game as he defends against Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) during the second half at Time Warner Cable Arena. Hornets win 108-104. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /

Anyone?

The NBA’s Southeast Division is crowded as ever. I don’t think this division features three 48 win teams anymore. However, as I think the top teams in this division lost more than they gained in the offseason, this still should be one of the most competitive races in the NBA.

It could all come down to which teams gets to 45 wins first.

Charlotte seems like the most complete team on paper as of right now, but calling them a favorite is also a stretch.

must read: Ranking The Top 10 Shooting Guards In The NBA

This could very well turn into a two-horse race between the Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets for the division title. But, again, who can separate from the crowded pack?