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NBA: 2022-23 Eastern Conference pre-season playoff projections

By Michael Saenz

Boston Celtics Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)
Boston Celtics Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports) /
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Scottie Barnes
Toronto Raptors rookie Scottie Barnes Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Toronto Raptors

I have a ton of respect for the Toronto Raptors and the potential that they’ll enter the 2022-23 NBA season with. This is not a team that many will include in their shortlist of favorites to possibly win the Eastern Conference, but this is a team that could hover around the potential dark horses.

And one big reason why is the continued progression and development of Scottie Barnes. En route to winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award last season, Barnes proved that not only was he a worthy top 5 pick but that he has the tools and potential to be a superstar in this league.

If Barnes can make the jump to stardom this season, this is a Raptors team that has the potential to cause many problems to many teams in the East. Let’s remember, this is a loaded roster with Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, Fred VanVleet, and Gary Trent Jr.

The Raptors are loaded. If Barnes can make the star jump, watch out.