Eastern Conference Power Rankings: Cavs leap after Mitchell trade

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Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers and Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat. Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images /

Eastern Conference Power Rankings: The Playoff Teams

3. Philadelphia 76ers

Joel Embiid finished as the MVP runner-up for the second consecutive season, and when healthy in the postseason has been dominant. The problem has always been the supporting cast, and this year that group looks the best it ever has. James Harden appears healthy, Tyrese Maxey is a developing force, Tobias Harris is an excellent fourth option and they have real role players in PJ Tucker, Danuel House and D’Anthony Melton surrounding them. Harden has to prove it first, but right now this team looks to be in great shape to push for an Eastern Conference Finals berth.

4. Miami Heat

The Miami Heat had the best record in the East last season and were a shot away from the NBA Finals. They also played a bit above their heads and lost Tucker to the 76ers this offseason without any other noticeable improvement. If Victor Oladipo can take on a larger role this year they could maintain last season’s success, but more likely they fall back into the pack a bit and aren’t at the top of the conference this time around.

5. Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavaliers are brimming with talent, and Donovan Mitchell can step in immediately as a proven top-tier playoff scoring threat. Yet there is a general lack of playoff experience from the other three stars that can’t be offset by Kevin Love and Mitchell alone, so it will take time for this group to grow together. Solving the hole at small forward will be a top priority in moving up this list.

6. Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets might end up anywhere from first to 10th on this list, and no one can truly predict where they will ultimately land. On paper, the Nets appear to be a title contender, with shooting around three stars who all complement each other. In reality this team is a dysfunctional mess with a combination of injury-prone veterans and irrational decision makers. Right now they can’t be trusted to come together for a postseason run.