NBA Power Rankings: 2016-17 Training Camp Edition

Jun 19, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with the Larry O
Jun 19, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with the Larry O
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Apr 17, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) looks to pass the ball as Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) defends during the first half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 17, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) looks to pass the ball as Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (20) defends during the first half in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Re-signing Nicolas Batum was a necessity for this team, there’s no question about it. However, because of that, the team wasn’t able to pay Jeremy Lin and Al Jefferson. And I really think those losses are going to hurt this team than many believe.

Sure, the return of Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will definitely help this team but I’m not sure this team’s bench will have the same punch it did last season.

And that was a big part of their ability to play through the loss of MKG. Plus, coming off arguably the best season of his career thus far, are we sure Kemba Walker is ready for an encore performance?

I’m just not sure about this team.