NBA: Blockbuster trades, LeBron James’ decline, other 2021 bold predictions

Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)
Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)
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Atlanta Hawks
Atlanta Hawks Trae Young (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

NBA prediction: The Atlanta Hawks will be a top 5 seed in the East

There might not be another team in the Eastern Conference that had as great as an offseason as the Atlanta Hawks. While some of their moves will be viewed as polarizing, I believe that this team made themselves a true playoff contender in the Eastern Conference.

While this team’s ceiling likely depends on the continued development of Trae Young and John Collins, I believe that this team has a roster that can compete with the top five teams in the Eastern Conference.

So much so, I believe that the Hawks will actually finish with a top 5 seed in the East heading into the playoffs. I believe Trae Young is going to have a phenomenal year and will lead the way for the Hawks as they make the push for the playoffs.