2015 Eastern Conference Lines
The 2014-15 NBA season is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated seasons in recent years, and that’s largely because of the offseason moves that took place in the Eastern Conference.
For Starters, LeBron James’ decision to spurn the Miami Heat for the Cleveland Cavaliers has shaken the foundation of the Association. Combine that with the Cavs’ acquisition of Kevin Love, the Bulls’ acquisition of Pau Gasol and the emergence of youth on the Washington Wizards and Toronto Raptors, and you have a conference that is up for grabs after four years of dominance by the Heat.
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2015 NBA Futures: Cleveland Cavaliers (4/5)
When LeBron James made his decision to return home, the NBA instantly had a new favorite team to root for. When Kevin Love was traded for No. 1 pick Andrew Wiggins (and other pieces), the league instantly had a new favorite for a championship.
At this point, it appears that the Cavs are leading the pack out East when it comes to chasing a conference championship. The Big Three of James, Love and Kyrie Irving is arguably the best in the league before ever playing a game together, and while chemistry could be a concern early, the hope is that talent trumps trouble throughout the early stages of their time together.
As James stated in his letter to fans, as published by SI.com’s Lee Jenkins, winning a championship won’t be easy. That said, the team is the favorites for a reason, and fans are ready to see what James can do in his return to the team that drafted him.
2015 NBA Futures: Chicago Bulls (9/4)
The Chicago Bulls chose to sign Pau Gasol this summer and slide him into the starting 4 spot, formerly occupied by the now-amnestied Carlos Boozer. But as big of an acquisition as that was, and should prove to be, this team is getting one player who will be the reason for contention in 2014-15.
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After missing Derrick Rose for essentially the past two seasons, this team — and this fanbase — is ready to see “The Return” 2.0. Last time around, Rose went out with another season-ending injury early in the year, and the hope is that he can come back and return to MVP form.
While the point guard looked good in FIBA competition, it’s important to recognize he was going against inferior competition most of the time. However, seeing his athleticism return during the summer is a good sign, and the hope is that he’s worked out the kinks and gotten into shape with the season on the horizon.
2015 NBA Futures: Washington Wizards 14/1
The Washington Wizards have seen one of the most drastic turnarounds the past couple of seasons. They’ve gone from basement of the league and butt of the jokes to a legitimate contender for an Eastern Conference championship.
At this point the Wizards look like a team with a high ceiling. The question is: How high? Are we talking NBA Finals high? If we’re being honest, probably not.
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Washington has a nice blend of youth and experience, and the addition of Paul Pierce brings the playoff mentality that might have been missing even amid last year’s run. Washington has a shot at making the Eastern Conference title game, but barring a botched run from the Cavs and the Bulls, this group might be a year or two away from championship contention.
2015 NBA Futures: Toronto Raptors (25/1)
There are teams out East that have higher odds than the Toronto Raptors, but if you’re looking for a sleeper, this might be the best place to look.
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Simply put, the Raptors were one block shot away from making the second round last season. They retained Kyle Lowry this summer, and their young core should show improvements with proving doubters wrong on their minds this season.
2015 NBA Futures: Odds to Win 2015 Eastern Conference
Cleveland Cavaliers 4/5
Chicago Bulls 9/4
Washington Wizards 14/1
Miami Heat 16/1
Indiana Pacers 20/1
Charlotte Hornets 25/1
New York Knicks 25/1
Toronto Raptors 25/1
Brooklyn Nets 28/1
Atlanta Hawks 40/1
Boston Celtics 50/1
Detroit Pistons 100/1
Orlando Magic 100/1
Milwaukee Bucks 150/1
Philadelphia 76ers 150/1
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