5. Brooklyn Nets
The Nets pulled off the trade of the year, sending James Harden to the 76ers for Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, and Andre Drummond. Harden never fit well with the Nets spacing and failed to adjust to their system with Kyrie and KD. Simmons should add great defense and post play, and Curry will be an instant impact shooter.
4. Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers acquired James Harden in the afore-mentioned trade. Harden will pair with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, along with Tobias Harris. The Sixers will need to mesh quickly to make a playoff run. If this team fails to make a deep playoff run, big changes could be coming in Philly.
3. Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs are one of the best young teams in the league right now. Cleveland has drafted and traded well for years and now boasts a lineup of Darius Garland, Collin Sexton, Caris Levert, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Cleveland is in contention in the East and can potentially carry their momentum into the playoffs.
2. Dallas Mavericks
The Mavs whiffed hard on the 2019 Kristaps Porzingis trade, but they flipped him at the deadline for Spencer Dinwiddie and David Bertrans, both good role players. Luka Doncic has been very good this season, and Tim Hardaway can help to elevate the Mavs into true contenders.
1. Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks are the defending champs and are just getting healthy again. Khris Middleton was injured this season as was superstar Giannis. Both are getting back to 100% and still made the All-Star Team. Jrue Holiday is playing well and Serge Ibaka should be a great defender off the bench.
