Sir Charles in Charge
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NBA: Predicting the East playoff picture at the midway point of the 2017-18 season

By Brandon Osborne

BOSTON, MA - DECEMBER 20: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics attempts a last second shot against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter at TD Garden on December 20, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Heat defeat the Celtics 90-89. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - DECEMBER 20: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics attempts a last second shot against the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter at TD Garden on December 20, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Heat defeat the Celtics 90-89. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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DETROIT, MI – NOVEMBER 08: Head coach Stan Van Gundy of the Detroit Pistons talks to Avery Bradley #22 during action against the Indiana Pacers at Little Caesars Arena on November 9, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit won the game 114-97. 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 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI – NOVEMBER 08: Head coach Stan Van Gundy of the Detroit Pistons talks to Avery Bradley #22 during action against the Indiana Pacers at Little Caesars Arena on November 9, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. Detroit won the game 114-97. 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 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

9. Detroit Pistons

Current Seed: 7th 

Record: 22-18

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 19

The Pistons had an excellent start to the season going 14-6 through November but they have since went 8-12. Detroit has issues at the point guard position, especially with Reggie Jackson sidelined with an injury. Right now, they simply don’t look like one of the eight best teams in the conference.

Prediction: 9th

10. Charlotte Hornets

Current Seed: 11th

Record: 15-24

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 20

The Hornets are better than their record indicates but they still have limited outside shooters, struggle to score, and need Kemba Walker on the floor at all times. The Hornets need to upgrade their roster and shed salary so look for them to do something at the trade deadline.

Prediction: 10th

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11. New York Knicks

Current Seed: 11th 

Record: 19-21

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 23

The Knicks are much improved compared to last season as they rank 15th in both offensive and defensive rating, but this team still needs better players. Kristaps Porzingis has been great this season but he’s already showing signs of wearing down and there is no relief in sight.

Prediction: 11th

12. Brooklyn Nets

Current Seed 12th 

Record: 15-26

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 21

The Nets have been a better team then expected and that’s with injuries to both Jeremy Lin and D’Angelo Russell. The Nets won’t compete for a playoff spot but they will help spoil somes teams chances.

Prediction: 12th

13. Chicago Bulls

Current Seed: 13th 

Record: 15-27

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 21

The Bulls started the season looking like the NBA’s worst team but have been solid lately. The return of Mirotic has helped the team find their way but he will be traded soon as he’s made it clear he wants out. On the plus side, Zach LaVine is coming back this weekend.

Prediction: 13th

14. Orlando Magic

Current Seed: 14th 

Record: 12-30

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 20

The Magic started the season 5-2 but have since went 7-228. Orlando has some good pieces but this team is still among the Conference’s worst and will compete for the top pick in the 2018 NBA draft.

Prediction: 14th

15. Atlanta Hawks

Current Seed: 15th 

Record: 11-30

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 24

The Hawks have a bottom 10 offense and defense. Atlanta looks like the Eastern Conference favorite to land the top pick.

Prediction: 15th

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