3. Brooklyn Nets
The fall of the Brooklyn Nets was greatly exaggerated. Since starting the season 2-3, the Nets have gone 13-2 with their only losses coming at the hands of the Golden State Warriors and Chicago Bulls. Even without Kyrie Irving, the Nets have shown to be a strong contender in the Eastern Conference.
What’s most scary about the Nets getting back on track is the fact that James Harden is looking more and more like his old self. After a rough start to the year, in which many were quick to doubt him, Harden is looking like his MVP self.
If that remains to be the case, the Nets should be able to round into the championship contender that many expected them to be even without Kyrie on the active roster.