From the Decision, to the Magic face-lift, Melo, D-Williams, and other deadline deals, the NBA Eastern Conference has changed dramatically this year, and for the better. It's passed the all-star break and things are getting a little crazy... so before we try to declare an Eastern Conference Champion lets just take a step back, breathe, and enjoy.
Rather then deciding power rankings like the BCS standings, lets categorize and appreciate what is no longer the JV of the NBA. The NBA East has six, that's right, six teams that could potentially make a NBA Finals push. The Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, Orlando Magic, New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks, each have the talent, leadership, and capability to represent the Eastern Conference and here's why.
Boston Celtics- Defending Eastern Conference Champions, four all-stars, need I say more?
Miami Heat- The Heatles have looked incredibly shaky at the end of close games and against good teams, but we all know the talent of Lebron James and Dwayne Wade cannot be written off.
Chicago Bulls- They are young, but experienced. They are well-balanced, play great defense, and bring a lot of energy every night.
Orlando Magic- With Dwight Howard commanding the paint, the Magic will be tough to beat even if superman continues to get shady support from his side-kicks.
New York Knicks- Chauncey Billups may only have a few years left at a high level, but make no mistake his addition brings a Big 3 to nyc, and while they aren't as talented as the Miami crew, they are more balanced with a true point guard, pure shooter, and post-up presence.
Atlanta Hawks- Don't laugh, and don't underestimate the balance and leadership Kirk Heinrich brings to the Hawks. Heinrich has been a consistent, solid point guard in the NBA who has struggled being forced to play out of position in Chicago, covering for Ben Gordon, an undersized shooting guard. This is Kirk's first chance to be a true point guard and if he can bring a steady hand to the talented Hawks, the sky is the limit.
I won't go past six and say that every team who makes the playoffs has a chance to represent the Eastern Conference, but lets not argue about who is better now. Teams are up and down each week and it doesn't really matter. Let's root hard for our teams and just enjoy the drama and unpredictability that awaits some great basketball.
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