NBA: Predicting the East playoffs at the midway point of the 17-18 season

NBA: Predicting the East playoff picture at the midway point of the 2017-18 season

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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MIAMI, FL – OCTOBER 09: Hassan Whiteside #21 of the Miami Heat looks on during a preseason game against the Charlotte Hornets at American Airlines Arena on October 9, 2017 in Miami, Florida. 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 Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

6. Miami Heat

Current Seed: 4th

Record: 24-17

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 19

The Miami Heat are once again overachieving this season with their cast of misfits. At this point in the season, they rank in the bottom third on offense and have a middle of the pack defense. Their roster is good, not great, but Erik Spoelstra has once again worked his magic and has the Heat in the thick of the East playoff race.

As long as Goran Dragic or Hassan Whiteside doesn’t miss lengthy time for the remainder of the season, the Heat should get the playoff nod. If they play their cards right, they could have homecourt advantage in the first round, too.

Prediction: 6 seed

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