With the NBA resuming shortly, I have some predictions for the remaining bubble playoff teams, and I will begin with those in the Eastern Conference.
Washington Wizards: The Wizards have been average this year while being carried by superstar Bradley Beal, although they have some young talent emerging.
Ceiling – No playoffs
Floor – No playoffs
Orlando Magic: The Magic finished at the bottom of the final eight in the East but struggled due to the loss of Jonathon Isaac early in the season.
Ceiling – First Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Brooklyn Nets: The Nets have been playing without their two superstars, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, for most of the season causing them to finish seventh in the East.
Ceiling – First Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Philadelphia 76ers: The 76ers have been a letdown this year, primarily due to the lack of consistent health of their stars and depth, causing a good team to finish sixth in the East.
Ceiling – East Finals
Floor – First Round Exit
Indiana Pacers: With Victor Oladipo injured for most of the season, Indiana proved they could still contend, as well as produced an all-star, but without Oladipo playing in the bubble they will not be able to contend with the other East teams.
Ceiling – Second Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Miami Heat: The Miami Heat surprised everyone this year by acquiring Jimmy Butler and developing Bam into an all-star, but their regular season success will not continue into the playoffs with such a young and unexperienced core.
Ceiling – Second Round Exit
Floor – First Round Exit
Boston Celtics: The Celtics young core continues to develop, and with the addition of Kemba Walker, they can stir up some trouble in the playoffs
Ceiling – East Finals
Floor – Second Round Exit
Toronto Raptors: Even though the Raptors lost Kawhi, they have continued to play as if he were still there. They’ve locked in the second spot in the East with a chance to make a deep run.
Ceiling – Finals
Floor – Second Round Exit
Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks have been nearly unstoppable behind Giannis and Middleton, and Giannis does not plan to lose in the East Finals again.
Ceiling – Finals
Floor – East Finals
Photo Credit: Matty Meyer / Getty Images
