Post by Dallas Mavericks on Jul 26, 2009 9:58:37 GMT -5
1. Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers are not only the real life defending NBA champions, but they have recently traded away Andrew Bynum for Josh Smith and have signed free agent point guard, Andre Miller, to give them one of the most defensive line-ups to ever be assembled. However, it will be interesting to see how Kobe Bryant and Ron Artest will work together, after what happened in the semi-finals of the playoffs.
2. Boston Celtics
Without making any trades and signing free agent small forward, Matt Barnes, the Boston Celtics still remain one of the top teams in the NBA. With "The Big Three" remaining together, Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins continuing to show improvement, and the addition of Rasheed Wallace coming off the bench, the Boston Celtics may be the biggest threat in the Eastern Conference.
3. San Antonio Spurs
Just like the Boston Celtics, the San Antonio Spurs has had a very inactive off-season. Despite being criticized for their boring plays, the additions of Richard Jefferson and Antonio McDyess might change everything. With the everlasting combination of Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, can their chemistry help them become playoff contenders of the NBA Championships?
4. Houston Rockets
Having one of the most busiest off-seasons, out of the top five NBA teams in the power rankings, the Houston Rockets have improved dramatically. Their most notable move was the acquisation of Baron Davis. However, this trade won't help the risks of injury-prone superstars, Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming. But, if Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming can stay healthy, the Houston Rockets will be a forced to be reckoned with in the NBA.
5. Orlando Magic
Season after season, Dwight Howard continues to improve. However, it will be interesting when he plays without a team that got him into the NBA Finals in real life. With Vince Carter and Carmelo Anthony being acquired, after the departure of Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu, Dwight Howard might have to adjust a bit before the Orlando Magic can dominate the Easter Conference.
6. Cleveland Cavaliers
After making five trades, separating from LeBron James being the most recent, the Cleveland Cavaliers improves dramatically, almost having a completely different team. After signing Stephon Marbury, Raef LaFrentz, Ruben Patterson and Robert Horry, the Cleveland Cavaliers give themselves the most experienced bench in the NBA. Can the Cavaliers win it all without "The King"?
7. Charlotte Bobcats
It looks like the Charlotte Bobcats have found "The Answer" to their problems. With the signing of free agent shooting guard, Allen Iverson, as well as the acquisitions of Shawn Marion and Devin Harris, the Charlotte Bobcats add even more defense, quickness and explosiveness to their squad. So, don't blink. This might be the year where the Charlotte Bobcats finally get some post-season action.
8. Denver Nuggets
Another team with a busy off-season, the Denver Nuggets. Most recently, they acquired a clutch shooter in Gilbert Arenas. Along with "Agent Zero", Carlos Boozer, David Lee, Michael Redd and Tayshaun Prince. That's right! A totally different starting line-up from last year. Despite losing Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups, expect more scoring and more defense. What else could you ask for from a team?
9. Utah Jazz
After six years as a professional in the NBA, Leandro Barbosa finally gets his chance to start. Chemistry won't be a problem, as he will be playing along with Grant Hill and Amare Stoudemire. Acquiring Larry Hughes and Rashard Lewis gives the Utah Jazz more quickness, defense, scoringas well as playoff experience. But it's not only the starters. Their substitutes can be as dangerous as them.
10. Detroit Pistons
It may be weird seeing Rodney Stuckey start at point guard, following the footsteps of Allen Iverson and Chauncey Billups, it may be even more weird seeing Richard Hamilton and Brad Miller come off the bench. But don't underestimate the look of this team. With the acquisitions of John Salmons and the UConn duo of Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva, this team can make it pretty far in the Eastern Conference.
11. Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks brought some NBA Championship experience to the franchise, acquiring Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum from the Los Angeles Lakers. Once again, explosiveness is gained, as Kevin Martin and Corey Maggette join the Atlanta Hawks. Joe Johnson, on the other hand, creates mismatches, as he will be moving from shooting guard to point guard, replacing Mike Bibby.
12. Sacramento Kings
After seven years playing for the Sacramento Kings, people would've never thought Mike Bibby would return to Sacramento, after two years with the Atlanta Hawks. Reuniting with Francisco Garcia, Mike Bibby will be leading a team of youth with Luol Deng, Al Horford and Chris Kaman. Just when things couldn't get worse for other teams, Andres Nocioni is the sixth man off the bench.
13. Dallas Mavericks
It seems like everytime the Dallas Mavericks make a trade, the team seems to get more younger and younger. That's because it is. After acquiring T.J. Ford and Tyler Hansborough for Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks gains youth and quickness to the squad. Explosiveness becomes a factor, as Jason Richardson joins the squad, and All Harrington brings size and toughness to the squad, along with Boris Diaw. Whoever the GM is for this team is a genius.
14. Washington Wizards
After beating out the Boston Celtics, the Sacramento Kings and the Los Angeles Lakers, the Washington Wizards finally get some help in the most, gaining free agent, Jamaal Magloire. Despite losing their franchise player in Gilbert Arenas, they acquire another big time shooter, Chauncey Billups. With other great shooters, like Mike Miller, Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler, Washington may possibly be a contender in the East.
15. Miami Heat
Without making any trades or signing any free agents, the Miami Heat stand in the middle of our pre-season power rankings. With Jermaine O'Neal, Udonis Haslem and Michael Beasley in the front court, it will be difficult to get some inside scoring. And the of course, there is Dwyane Wade, who will be playing the final year of his contract with the Miami Heat. Can "Flash" lead his team to the playoffs one more time?
16: New Orleans Hornets
Similar to the Miami Heat, the New Orleans Heat remain the same. Without signing any free agents or trading any of their players, chemistry won't be a problem, especially with Chris Paul and Tyson Chandler. With the NBA Championship experience of James Posey, the pure shooting of Peja Stojakovic and the everlasting growth of David West, it will be hard to stop, despite their spot on the pre-season power rankings.
17. Philadelphia 76ers
With Gerald Green as the only set back in the Philadelphia 76ers, can the high-flyer keep up with people like Elton Brand and fellow high-flyer, Andre Iguodala? Defense won't be a problem with Samuel Dalembert and Elton Brand in the front court. Leadership will also be gained, acquiring Kirk Hinrich. And just when you thought the defense was over, the Philadelphia 76ers has Eddy Curry, Stromile Swift and Nate Robinson coming off the bench.
18. Chicago Bulls
Having one of, if not, the youngest teams in the NBA, inexperience may be a factor in the team's play. However, last season's Rookie of the Year, Derrick Rose, was one of the factors that lead the Chicago Bulls to the NBA Playoffs. Not only that, the Chicago Bulls took the playoff series to seven games before losing at the end. Can the youth of the Chicago Bulls lead them another appearance in the NBA playoffs.
19. Golden State Warriors
The Warriors have recently made a trade that shipped out Corey Maggette to the Rockets for Luis Scola and Trevor Ariza. Then they also shipped away some of their youthful talent for Rudy Gay. They have Monta Ellis and the very talented Stephen Jackson to give this team a hope in the west. I still they're a legit PF away from contending though.
20. Memphis Grizzlies
Right now, the Memphis Grizzlies have Paul Millsap as their small forward. Hopefully, for them, that could all change. With Zach Randolph and Hasheem Thabeet at the front court, you'd need a lot to deal with their toughness. With O.J. Mayo, Stephen Curry and Mike Conley Jr., perimeter shooting won't be a problem at all.
21. Indiana Pacers
This team is practically the same team as they started only with Jason Kidd at the Point. Not sure if that makes them better or worse but that is yet to be determined. YIIII loves his white players so we're going to see how the "All-White" dynasty turns into this year.
22. Oklahoma City Thunder
Once again, youthful, but inexperience becomes a factor. The Oklahoma City Thunder signed Shaun Livingston, giving Russell Westbrook some help at the point guard poisition. Guaranteed that in a few years, this expansion team can be as big as any other team. But as for right now, the Oklahoma City Thunder need to gain experience first, as they hardly have any right now.
23. Portland Trailblazers
This taem last year in real life made a playoff run, however, the ratings just aren't there yet for them. In another year or two this team could easily make a run with Roy being bumped up but not this year. They just don't have the talent yet. Oden and Aldridge is a talented front court but I believe their back court could use a bit of work at the PG position.
24. Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns won't have a problem at the point guard spot, as they have required one of the best in Deron Williams. With the experience of Andrei Kirilenko, Kenyon Martin and Erick Dampier, who is getting paid way more than he should be, the Phoenix Suns, surprisingly, might have a chance. With Sasha Pavlovic, Daniel Gibson and Rudy Fernandez coming off the bench, it will be hard to say if the Phoenix Suns can make the post-season or not.
25. Los Angeles Clippers
They're in rebuilding mode here folks. They still have Blake Griffin and Marcus Camby up front but they are in rebuilding mode. They hav Jamal Crawford and Aaron Brooks in their back court with Al Thornton at the SF position. They also have a very talented young player in Spencer Hawes on the bench.
26. Toronto Raptors
Acquiring LeBron James and Ben Wallace from the Cleveland Cavaliers, in exchange for Chris Bosh and Hedo Turkoglu. However, "The King" can't do it all on his own. With the help of Jose Calderon, DeMar DeRozan and Andrea Bargnani, LeBron James won't have as much help as he did in Cleveland.
27. Minnesota Timberwolves
Ricky Rubio at the 2 guard? This is where I think the Timberwolves are going wrong, they traded Jonny Flynn for DJ Augustin but they now have 2 strict PG's who can't shoot. Rubio needs to be playing the one for somebody. Therefore I expect a trade soon. KLove and Jefferson are the only reason this team isn't in last.
28. New Jersey Nets
Letting go of Devin Harris might not have been such a smart idea, as they downgraded at the point guard position, acquiring Raymond Felton. However, Raymond Felton has great back-up point guards with Johnny Flynn, Keyon Dooling and Rafer Alston. Raymond Felton will have the difficult task of leading the youthful team of Brook Lopez, Yi JianLian and Terrence Williams.
29. Milwaukee Bucks
He's made it no secret that he's rebuilding in Milwaukee. He's recently dealt away Big Z as well so we're looking at one of the worst teams ever assembled as well. This team is heavily relying on the services of recently drafted PG Brandon Jennings and JR Smith. If they fail, so do the Bucks.
30. New York Knicks
Despite having the last spot on the pre-season power rankings, expect highlights from New York Knicks games. With Nene and Tyrus Thomas on your team, expect big blocks and dunks. However, their inexperience might prevent them from getting wins. Having Chris Duhon and Bobby Jackson as starters will be a problem, as they are more bench players. With the youth they have, it will be hard to survive in the NBA.
The Los Angeles Lakers are not only the real life defending NBA champions, but they have recently traded away Andrew Bynum for Josh Smith and have signed free agent point guard, Andre Miller, to give them one of the most defensive line-ups to ever be assembled. However, it will be interesting to see how Kobe Bryant and Ron Artest will work together, after what happened in the semi-finals of the playoffs.
2. Boston Celtics
Without making any trades and signing free agent small forward, Matt Barnes, the Boston Celtics still remain one of the top teams in the NBA. With "The Big Three" remaining together, Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins continuing to show improvement, and the addition of Rasheed Wallace coming off the bench, the Boston Celtics may be the biggest threat in the Eastern Conference.
3. San Antonio Spurs
Just like the Boston Celtics, the San Antonio Spurs has had a very inactive off-season. Despite being criticized for their boring plays, the additions of Richard Jefferson and Antonio McDyess might change everything. With the everlasting combination of Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, can their chemistry help them become playoff contenders of the NBA Championships?
4. Houston Rockets
Having one of the most busiest off-seasons, out of the top five NBA teams in the power rankings, the Houston Rockets have improved dramatically. Their most notable move was the acquisation of Baron Davis. However, this trade won't help the risks of injury-prone superstars, Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming. But, if Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming can stay healthy, the Houston Rockets will be a forced to be reckoned with in the NBA.
5. Orlando Magic
Season after season, Dwight Howard continues to improve. However, it will be interesting when he plays without a team that got him into the NBA Finals in real life. With Vince Carter and Carmelo Anthony being acquired, after the departure of Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu, Dwight Howard might have to adjust a bit before the Orlando Magic can dominate the Easter Conference.
6. Cleveland Cavaliers
After making five trades, separating from LeBron James being the most recent, the Cleveland Cavaliers improves dramatically, almost having a completely different team. After signing Stephon Marbury, Raef LaFrentz, Ruben Patterson and Robert Horry, the Cleveland Cavaliers give themselves the most experienced bench in the NBA. Can the Cavaliers win it all without "The King"?
7. Charlotte Bobcats
It looks like the Charlotte Bobcats have found "The Answer" to their problems. With the signing of free agent shooting guard, Allen Iverson, as well as the acquisitions of Shawn Marion and Devin Harris, the Charlotte Bobcats add even more defense, quickness and explosiveness to their squad. So, don't blink. This might be the year where the Charlotte Bobcats finally get some post-season action.
8. Denver Nuggets
Another team with a busy off-season, the Denver Nuggets. Most recently, they acquired a clutch shooter in Gilbert Arenas. Along with "Agent Zero", Carlos Boozer, David Lee, Michael Redd and Tayshaun Prince. That's right! A totally different starting line-up from last year. Despite losing Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups, expect more scoring and more defense. What else could you ask for from a team?
9. Utah Jazz
After six years as a professional in the NBA, Leandro Barbosa finally gets his chance to start. Chemistry won't be a problem, as he will be playing along with Grant Hill and Amare Stoudemire. Acquiring Larry Hughes and Rashard Lewis gives the Utah Jazz more quickness, defense, scoringas well as playoff experience. But it's not only the starters. Their substitutes can be as dangerous as them.
10. Detroit Pistons
It may be weird seeing Rodney Stuckey start at point guard, following the footsteps of Allen Iverson and Chauncey Billups, it may be even more weird seeing Richard Hamilton and Brad Miller come off the bench. But don't underestimate the look of this team. With the acquisitions of John Salmons and the UConn duo of Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva, this team can make it pretty far in the Eastern Conference.
11. Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks brought some NBA Championship experience to the franchise, acquiring Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum from the Los Angeles Lakers. Once again, explosiveness is gained, as Kevin Martin and Corey Maggette join the Atlanta Hawks. Joe Johnson, on the other hand, creates mismatches, as he will be moving from shooting guard to point guard, replacing Mike Bibby.
12. Sacramento Kings
After seven years playing for the Sacramento Kings, people would've never thought Mike Bibby would return to Sacramento, after two years with the Atlanta Hawks. Reuniting with Francisco Garcia, Mike Bibby will be leading a team of youth with Luol Deng, Al Horford and Chris Kaman. Just when things couldn't get worse for other teams, Andres Nocioni is the sixth man off the bench.
13. Dallas Mavericks
It seems like everytime the Dallas Mavericks make a trade, the team seems to get more younger and younger. That's because it is. After acquiring T.J. Ford and Tyler Hansborough for Jason Kidd, Dallas Mavericks gains youth and quickness to the squad. Explosiveness becomes a factor, as Jason Richardson joins the squad, and All Harrington brings size and toughness to the squad, along with Boris Diaw. Whoever the GM is for this team is a genius.
14. Washington Wizards
After beating out the Boston Celtics, the Sacramento Kings and the Los Angeles Lakers, the Washington Wizards finally get some help in the most, gaining free agent, Jamaal Magloire. Despite losing their franchise player in Gilbert Arenas, they acquire another big time shooter, Chauncey Billups. With other great shooters, like Mike Miller, Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler, Washington may possibly be a contender in the East.
15. Miami Heat
Without making any trades or signing any free agents, the Miami Heat stand in the middle of our pre-season power rankings. With Jermaine O'Neal, Udonis Haslem and Michael Beasley in the front court, it will be difficult to get some inside scoring. And the of course, there is Dwyane Wade, who will be playing the final year of his contract with the Miami Heat. Can "Flash" lead his team to the playoffs one more time?
16: New Orleans Hornets
Similar to the Miami Heat, the New Orleans Heat remain the same. Without signing any free agents or trading any of their players, chemistry won't be a problem, especially with Chris Paul and Tyson Chandler. With the NBA Championship experience of James Posey, the pure shooting of Peja Stojakovic and the everlasting growth of David West, it will be hard to stop, despite their spot on the pre-season power rankings.
17. Philadelphia 76ers
With Gerald Green as the only set back in the Philadelphia 76ers, can the high-flyer keep up with people like Elton Brand and fellow high-flyer, Andre Iguodala? Defense won't be a problem with Samuel Dalembert and Elton Brand in the front court. Leadership will also be gained, acquiring Kirk Hinrich. And just when you thought the defense was over, the Philadelphia 76ers has Eddy Curry, Stromile Swift and Nate Robinson coming off the bench.
18. Chicago Bulls
Having one of, if not, the youngest teams in the NBA, inexperience may be a factor in the team's play. However, last season's Rookie of the Year, Derrick Rose, was one of the factors that lead the Chicago Bulls to the NBA Playoffs. Not only that, the Chicago Bulls took the playoff series to seven games before losing at the end. Can the youth of the Chicago Bulls lead them another appearance in the NBA playoffs.
19. Golden State Warriors
The Warriors have recently made a trade that shipped out Corey Maggette to the Rockets for Luis Scola and Trevor Ariza. Then they also shipped away some of their youthful talent for Rudy Gay. They have Monta Ellis and the very talented Stephen Jackson to give this team a hope in the west. I still they're a legit PF away from contending though.
20. Memphis Grizzlies
Right now, the Memphis Grizzlies have Paul Millsap as their small forward. Hopefully, for them, that could all change. With Zach Randolph and Hasheem Thabeet at the front court, you'd need a lot to deal with their toughness. With O.J. Mayo, Stephen Curry and Mike Conley Jr., perimeter shooting won't be a problem at all.
21. Indiana Pacers
This team is practically the same team as they started only with Jason Kidd at the Point. Not sure if that makes them better or worse but that is yet to be determined. YIIII loves his white players so we're going to see how the "All-White" dynasty turns into this year.
22. Oklahoma City Thunder
Once again, youthful, but inexperience becomes a factor. The Oklahoma City Thunder signed Shaun Livingston, giving Russell Westbrook some help at the point guard poisition. Guaranteed that in a few years, this expansion team can be as big as any other team. But as for right now, the Oklahoma City Thunder need to gain experience first, as they hardly have any right now.
23. Portland Trailblazers
This taem last year in real life made a playoff run, however, the ratings just aren't there yet for them. In another year or two this team could easily make a run with Roy being bumped up but not this year. They just don't have the talent yet. Oden and Aldridge is a talented front court but I believe their back court could use a bit of work at the PG position.
24. Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns won't have a problem at the point guard spot, as they have required one of the best in Deron Williams. With the experience of Andrei Kirilenko, Kenyon Martin and Erick Dampier, who is getting paid way more than he should be, the Phoenix Suns, surprisingly, might have a chance. With Sasha Pavlovic, Daniel Gibson and Rudy Fernandez coming off the bench, it will be hard to say if the Phoenix Suns can make the post-season or not.
25. Los Angeles Clippers
They're in rebuilding mode here folks. They still have Blake Griffin and Marcus Camby up front but they are in rebuilding mode. They hav Jamal Crawford and Aaron Brooks in their back court with Al Thornton at the SF position. They also have a very talented young player in Spencer Hawes on the bench.
26. Toronto Raptors
Acquiring LeBron James and Ben Wallace from the Cleveland Cavaliers, in exchange for Chris Bosh and Hedo Turkoglu. However, "The King" can't do it all on his own. With the help of Jose Calderon, DeMar DeRozan and Andrea Bargnani, LeBron James won't have as much help as he did in Cleveland.
27. Minnesota Timberwolves
Ricky Rubio at the 2 guard? This is where I think the Timberwolves are going wrong, they traded Jonny Flynn for DJ Augustin but they now have 2 strict PG's who can't shoot. Rubio needs to be playing the one for somebody. Therefore I expect a trade soon. KLove and Jefferson are the only reason this team isn't in last.
28. New Jersey Nets
Letting go of Devin Harris might not have been such a smart idea, as they downgraded at the point guard position, acquiring Raymond Felton. However, Raymond Felton has great back-up point guards with Johnny Flynn, Keyon Dooling and Rafer Alston. Raymond Felton will have the difficult task of leading the youthful team of Brook Lopez, Yi JianLian and Terrence Williams.
29. Milwaukee Bucks
He's made it no secret that he's rebuilding in Milwaukee. He's recently dealt away Big Z as well so we're looking at one of the worst teams ever assembled as well. This team is heavily relying on the services of recently drafted PG Brandon Jennings and JR Smith. If they fail, so do the Bucks.
30. New York Knicks
Despite having the last spot on the pre-season power rankings, expect highlights from New York Knicks games. With Nene and Tyrus Thomas on your team, expect big blocks and dunks. However, their inexperience might prevent them from getting wins. Having Chris Duhon and Bobby Jackson as starters will be a problem, as they are more bench players. With the youth they have, it will be hard to survive in the NBA.