Sir Charles in Charge
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Philadelphia 76ers: Sifting through the hype and finding realistic expectations

By Vince Massara

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: Markelle Fultz walks on stage with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: Markelle Fultz walks on stage with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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OAKLAND, CA – JUNE 12: LeBron James
OAKLAND, CA – JUNE 12: LeBron James /

Playoff locks in the East

Looking at last year’s Eastern Conference standings, it is easy to see some of last season’s playoffs sides will be on the way out. Teams like Atlanta, Chicago, and Indiana all looking at consolidating future assets this coming season.

All three sides lost their best players and will aim to be relevant in a few seasons time. The race to playoff basketball in the is definitely an open one. Looking at last year’s playoff teams, there are five that should be locked in for the playoffs next year.

Boston Celtics

Last year’s surprise one-seed, the Celtics struck out on Paul George and traded away the number one pick. However, were the only team to bring a Western All-Star to the east, in Gordon Hayward. With the pedigree of a successful regular season, one of the best coaches in the league, and plenty of young talent, the Celtics aren’t going anywhere.

Verdict: Lock

Cleveland Cavaliers

Whilst there is LeBron in the East, the Cavs will be the team to beat. With the competition for the 17-18 season, LeBron could play one game a week and the Cavs would still be favorites to win the East. However, all that glitters is not gold in Cleveland. GM, David Griffin was let go from the franchise, and the main target, Chauncey Billups ruled himself out of the race. Regardless of what the future holds for Cleveland, expect them to make a push for the Championship again.

Verdict: Lock

Toronto Raptors

Whilst losing PJ Tucker to Houston, the Raptors still brought back Serge Ibaka and Kyle Lowry on somewhat team friendly deals. Bringing the band back together has been the regular course of action in Toronto, their main hope is to get as far into the playoffs as possible and hope for a bit of luck against the better sides.

Verdict: Lock

Washington Wizards

The Wizards were mighty close to knocking off the Celtics in the playoffs last season and will look to make another run at it again. Jodie Meeks and Tim Frazier have joined the Wizards’ bench unit which needs all the help it can get. The drop off in quality from starters to the bench was the Achilles heel of the Wizards with all the minutes going to John Wall and Bradley Beal, they looked exhausted late in playoff games.

Regardless, the Wizards should look to improve on last season and will be a candidate to upset the hierarchy in the East.

Verdict: Lock

Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks are one of the NBA’s darlings. Giannis Antetokounmpo is the league’s most improved player and looks to make another jump next season. Malcolm Brogdon was a surprise rookie of the year candidate and ended up taking home the award. Combining the two surprise packets with the reliable wing, Khris Middleton, and young talent, the Bucks should improve on their 42 win season.

Verdict: Lock