NBA: Fast Start Could Propel Nets in Eastern Conference Playoffs

The shortened season will be a boost to at least one team in the Eastern Conference according to Al Dannity. Here’s how Al sees the conference breaking down division by division.

Atlantic
Savvy bettors should be high on the New Jersey Nets early this season and it’s all because of Deron Williams. D-Will struggled initially in Europe as, like so many stars, he didn’t stay in shape during the early part of the lockout. Unlike the rest of the big names, NBA betting fans know the Nets’ biggest name is back at full fitness after dominating during the latter half of his stint with Besiktas. Jordan Farmar also benefitted hugely from his spell overseas. While the Nets should get caught down the stretch by the big guns, I like them to earn a trip to the playoffs in their last year in New Jersey.

This could see a big squeeze on the rest of the division. With the Celtics and Knicks locks to make the post-season, it’s going to be a huge challenge for the 76ers to return to the playoffs.

Central
No prizes for guessing first place here. Despite improvements elsewhere in the division, the Bulls remain the class in the Central with room to spare. A return to the Eastern Conference Finals should be seen as the minimum acceptable with a roster so loaded with talent. Rip Hamilton adds depth and championship winning experience to a team that was already amongst the NBA’s elite.

The addition of David West could push the Pacers into a position to get past the first round of the post-season but a .500 season would be enough to show progress. The current malaise of the Pistons and Cavaliers will see both remain in lottery territory, although the only way is up for the latter following the arrival of Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thomas. The Bucks are a lock for third and are likely to once again be a fringe playoff contender with a losing record.

Southeast
Last season the Heat overcame all kinds of dysfunction to make the NBA Finals. This time around they have a year of working together and the additional services of big man Eddy Curry to help. Curry has enjoyed what would, at best, be described as a mixed career in the league. In situational use he could prove a massive asset to Miami who lacked a legitimately threatening big man last season. The Heat are my favorites to win the NBA Finals this season but they are by no means a lock for the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference.

A tough divisional slate, featuring Atlanta and Orlando, should make it difficult for Miami to match the Bulls in the regular season. The Hawks and Magic can once again be pencilled in for the playoffs and don’t be surprised if they meet in the first round. It promises to be a long season for fans in Washington and Charlotte, although at least Wizards fans can marvel at John Wall.