6. Philadelphia 76ers
After acquiring James Harden at the NBA Trade Deadline, losing in the second round of the playoffs to the Miami Heat had to be seen as a disappointment for the Philadelphia 76ers. In fairness, the Sixers were banged up and essentially limping toward the finish line by the end of that series.
The Sixers made some necessary additions this offseason with De’Anthony Melton, Danuel House, and PJ Tucker. Neither of these players will garner major headlines, but each has the potential to really bolster this team’s chances in the playoffs.
If Harden and Embiid can remain healthy throughout the season (and that’s a big ask), the Sixers should have a strong chance to win the East in what looks like could be a wide-open year for the conference.