New York
Last season: 42-40, lost in first round.
Coach: Mike D’Antoni
Starting five: Mike Bibby, Toney Douglas, Carmelo Anthony, Amar’e Stoudemire, Tyson Chandler
Outlook: The Knicks are big on star power but don’t have much else after the Big Three. Depending on Bibby is a major mistake and the bench just isn’t good enough to run with the big boys in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks will take another step forward, but the roster needs further remodeling.
Philadelphia
Last season: 41-41, lost in first round.
Coach: Doug Collins
Starting five: Jrue Holiday, Evan Turner, Andre Iguodala, Elton Brand, Spencer Hawes
Outlook: The 76ers are going to be trouble for most teams because they are learning to play defense and have several weapons that can score. Turner must experience a breakout season for Philadelphia to reach the next level after a rather uninspiring rookie season. The 76ers could make a push for a top-4 playoff seed.
New Jersey
Last season: 24-58, did not qualify for playoffs.
Coach: Avery Johnson
Starting five: Deron Williams, Anthony Morrow, Damion James, Shelden Williams, Brook Lopez
Outlook: Kris Humphries finally re-signed, but this team is going to struggle. Only Williams and Lopez would start on other NBA teams and they have done so much saving to attract a major free agent that the Nets have ignored addressing other needs. New Jersey will take a step back and then wait to try and catch a superstar in the summer.
Toronto
Last season: 22-60, did not qualify for playoffs.
Coach: Dwane Casey
Starting five: Jose Calderon, DeMar DeRozan, James Johnson, Amir Johnson, Andrea Bargnani
Outlook: Hopefully, Raptors management is patient with Casey because this team could be the worst in the league. They have still not replaced Chris Bosh and are relying on youngsters such as DeRozan and Davis to play beyond their years. With no real leader and no real all-star, Toronto hopes its depth and Casey’s defense will win a few games, but not many.
CENTRAL DIVISION
Chicago
Last season: 62-20, lost in conference finals.
Coach: Tom Thibodeau
Starting five: Derrick Rose, Richard Hamilton, Luol Deng, Carlos Boozer, Joakim Noah
