NBA: Way-too-early Eastern Conference predictions for 2017-18

BOSTON, MA - MAY 25: Kyrie Irving #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers heads for the net as Terry Rozier #12 and Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics defend in the first half during Game Five of the 2017 NBA Eastern Conference Finals at TD Garden on May 25, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Elsa/Getty Images) /

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ATLANTA, GA – APRIL 24: Dennis Schroder #17 of the Atlanta Hawks drives to the basket against John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards during the fourth quarter in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals during the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Philips Arena on April 24, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/Getty Images) /

14. Atlanta Hawks

X-Factor: Dennis Schroder

Atlanta’s team was talented enough last year that the rest of the league wanted a piece of their success. They got just that. Charlotte traded for Dwight Howard, New York bought Tim Hardaway Jr., and Denver stole Paul Millsap. In all fairness, once the decision was made to trade Howard the rebuild was in full swing, and the rest of the pieces fell shortly after.

Look for Dennis Schroder, Kent Bazemore, Marco Bellnelli, Taurean Prince, Miles Plumlee, and rookie John Collins to try and pick up the pieces.

Head coach Mike Budenholzer will have significantly less to work with than last year, but will once again rely on his star PG to continue improving towards the future.

Final Record: 26-56

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