We know the Cavaliers will probably be the East's best team, assuming their key injured players return on schedule. We know the 76ers -- and probably the Nets too -- will make up the cellar. Everything in between, however, still makes absolutely no sense.
This week, we try to sift through the middle of the Eastern Conference. Who has the best chance of challenging the Cavaliers in the playoffs? Who is the second-best team right now? Which surprising start is sustainable? Can the Bucks and Wizards, two disappointing teams, get back into the mix?
We disagree on these questions. Mike stumped for Toronto, who rewarded his faith with a home loss to Denver that occurred after this recording. Ben made the case for Indiana, who rewarded his faith with a road loss to Portland that also occurred after this recording. We're intrigued by Miami, not sure about the Bulls (well, Ben is sure), really not sure about the Celtics and think we have the Hawks figured out. Mike also shows some love for the Magic, who have pushed their way into the conversation.
We also lament the state of our favorite teams (Mike's a Wizards fan, while Ben's a 76ers fan) and figure out why the Bucks are so bad.