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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PHOENIX, AZ – DECEMBER 13: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the Toronto Raptors reacts during the second half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on December 13, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Raptors defeated the Suns 115-109. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

2. Toronto Raptors

Current Seed: 2nd

Record: 29-11

Games remaining vs .500 or better: 24

The Toronto Raptors have looked like just as much of a threat in the East as Boston as they have the leagues 4th best offense and 5th best defense.

Toronto has also improved in large part to DeMar DeRozan evolving his game and playing like an NBA MVP candidate. He’s taking and making more 3’s this season than before, while also improving his assists numbers and rate.

As long the Raptors defend and DeRozan continues his play at this level,f then Toronto should be a serious threat to come out of the East.

Prediction: 2 seed

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