NBA: Eastern Conference Team Predictions 2011-2012

Eastern Conference:
With the Western Conference is done, it's the Eastern Conferences' turn. This conference is so different compared to the West. Where the West has depth, the East has power houses. Teams like the Heat, Knicks Bulls, and Celtics make up for the lack of competition in the East. Those four teams could be in the top five in the NBA at any time. So lets get to it!

On the Rise:

Washington Wizards

I really like this teams nucleus, and that all begins with John Wall, who is a very special player. He has all the skills to become a player just like Derrick Rose and we know how that turned out for the Bulls. Although John Wall isn't the only reason I love where this team is headed. Don't forget about one of the more underrated centers, in JaVale McGee. He is explosive and a great presence in the paint as well. So talented, young players on this team, and that is why I believe they can really make a playoff appearance.

Falling Fast:

Orlando Magic

This team just doesn't seem like a top team in the East now. It sat comfortably in the top four for the past few years, but this year they will slip. Teams made moves this off season, and the problem here, is the Magic didn't. Who is there to help Dwight Howard make a playoff push?  Plus, if they want to keep Dwight they'll have to make a move, or else that's it.

Dark Horse:

New York Knicks

The whole process began last season when the Knicks made the move to acquire Carmelo Anthony to pair up with Amare Stoudemire. The one thing they lacked last season was depth because of that trade, but this season is a different story. They revamped their whole team starting with Tyson Chandler. Fills up their need at center and it gives them one of the best defenders in the league as well. They've also added much needed depth to their guard positions. Drafting Iman Shumpert, and signing two veteran point guards in Baron Davis and Mike Bibby. Now that Mike D'Antoni has it's players to run his system, I think the Knicks become a championship contender.

Champions:

Miami Heat

It was very difficult for me to pick against the Chicago Bulls, especially after adding Richard Hamilton. But I cannot pick against LeBron James who has a chip on his shoulder. Lets be real, a player like LeBron James will not allow the 4th quarter disappearance act to be his finals legacy. He wants that to be erased and he has players like Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh to help him with his task. You just cannot pick against the Heat this year, its their year to win.