Predicting finishing order for Atlantic Division in 2020-21

We went over the Pacific Division yesterday and if there’s a division out East that could mirror them, it’s the Atlantic. Last season, the Nets were without Kevin Durant for the entirety of the campaign after he ruptured his Achilles before signing last offseason as a free agent. KD and Kyrie Irving are both healthy and the Nets are expected to go after the title this season with new coach Steve Nash.

The three teams competing with the Nets are the Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers. The Raps fell short of defending a title last season but were able to lock up G Fred VanVleet long-term a month ago. Toronto is still well-positioned to get into the playoffs and make a run.

The Celtics had a bit of turnover in their roster with Gordon Hayward bolting for Charlotte via free agency. Kemba Walker is expected to miss the start of the season after injections in his knee. Boston could take a bit of a step back this year but it also brought in some front court help in the form of Tristan Thompson.

The Sixers are the most intriguing team in the division. Doc Rivers and Daryl Morey are in town as the braintrust and Ben Simmons is back playing PG. Philly addressed a need for 3-point shooting in the offseason with Seth Curry, Danny Green and Tyrese Maxey. The Sixers also shipped out Al Horford’s contract and brought in Dwight Howard on a cheap deal.

Atlantic Division Finishing Order

1. Brooklyn Nets — Team Preview
2. Philadelphia 76ers — Team Preview
3. Boston Celtics — Team Preview
4. Toronto Raptors — Team Preview
5. New York Knicks — Team Preview