Honorable Mentions
-Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks have ways to go before they become really good. Despite that, they will be an improved team. In 2018-19 they went 29-53. I wouldn’t be surprised if they battle it out for the eighth spot in a mediocre Eastern Conference.
The additions of impact ready rookies Cam Reddish and De’Andre Hunter will improve their team. Getting a healthy John Collins will go a long way for them as well. Last season, Collins averaged 19.5 points and 9.8 rebounds.
Trae Young is ready to take a leap among the best guards in the league. As a rookie, he averaged 19.1 points and 8.1 assists. Adding veterans Jabari Parker, Evan Turner, and Allen Crabbe will help a young squad as well.
-Dallas Mavericks
Unfortunately, the Dallas Mavericks are in a loaded West Conference because this is a team most East teams wouldn’t want to face. With a superstar in the making in second-year Luka Doncic, the Mavericks will be a team on the rise.
Last year the Mavericks won 33 games, this season they can push for 40. Doncic won the Rookie of the Year Award after averaging 21.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6 assists.
The biggest reason they will see a jump is Kristaps Porzingis. The 24-year-old will return after missing last season with a torn ACL. In 2017-18 he averaged 22.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks. Porzingis and Doncic will immediately become the most intriguing young duo. Don’t be surprised if they can sneak in the playoffs.