1. Detroit Pistons (3rd in Conference) - The Pistons are the best team in this shabby division, and possibly the conference. I can't pick anyone higher than them in the Central. Chauncey Billups is as good as anyone in the clutch. Rip Hamilton is a great player, and I really liked the way Rodney Stuckey made his name in the playoffs last season. They'll finish 49-33 this season.
2. Cleveland Cavaliers (6th in Conference) - The Cavs are a essentially a one-man show with LeBron, since he is the best player in the League. Yes, he's better than Kobe. LeBron or Kobe seems to be the big debate these days. I'll go with LeBron. Daniel Gibson has a lot of upside, he'll have a good year. It's hard to leave the Cavs out of the playoff picture. I'll give 'em 44-38.
3. Chicago Bulls - I like the Bulls a lot this season. But I don't know for sure if they have a playoff bound team. "Captain" Kirk Heinrich is a good player and leader. Ben Gordon is too small to be a shooting guard, but isn't a point guard either. Luol Deng can be good. I love Joakim Noah, he brings so much energy, even though he is terrible fundamentally. I think the Bulls could maybe sneak in the playoffs. I'll give 'em 42-40.
4. Indiana Pacers - Danny Granger is ready to breakout, and with the addition of T.J. Ford, he can do so. I like the Brandon Rush pick, Rookie of the Year? we'll see. Jamaal Tinsley and Marquis Daniels off the bench will be nice this season. They are gonna be too young to get in this season, but maybe next. Let's say 37-45.
5. Milwaukee Bucks - Oh my precious Bucks. When will you finally make me happy? When they start playing D, that's when. In theory, the Bucks could make the playoffs. They have plenty of vets on the team this season. Ramon Sessions is the man. However, Luke Ridnour will need to step up. Redd and Jefferson can be great together. I, personally, am a fan of Andrew Bogut. He isn't a real house-hold name, but he gets the job done. Scott Skiles just needs to motivate these guys and they too could maybe sneak in this year, and shock the world. Or at least me. I'll say they end with a record of 34-48.
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