NBA: Way-too-early playoff predictions for the 2021-22 season

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Charlotte Hornets LaMelo Ball (Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports) /

7. Charlotte Hornets

If it wasn’t for an injury to LaMelo Ball, this is a team that probably makes the playoffs a year ago. Assuming they can stay healthy, I believe this is a team that is finally going to break through and make the postseason in the East.

Led by Ball and Terry Rozier, this is a Hornets team that won’t back down. What I like most about this team is the fact that there aren’t many teams that are more athletic than this team. They’ll outrun, outgun, and outjump you on any given night.

I’m not a fan of the Hornets, but I found myself slowly beginning to enjoy watching them play last season. That was the effect that Ball had on me. I have the Hornets penciled in as the 7th seed, but would also be OK with them swapping places with the 8th seed.