PHILADELPHIA 76ers
Philly was able to score one of the biggest off-season free agents on the market in power forward Elton Brand, but health still has to be somewhat of a concern for him. The 76ers have all the tools to be a top-notch team, but can they put it all together and produce? The player who will determine the success of the 76ers this season is shooting guard Andre Iguodala. He's been able to improve his scoring average in each season. After scoring an average of 20 points per game last season, Iguodala has the ability to be a star. The only problem will be whether he'll get enough touches in the offense as he plays alongside Brand and point guard Andre Miller.
MILWAUKEE BUCKS
Yes, this is a team that won 26 games last year. But look at the changes. New head coach Scott Skiles was able to turn around the Chicago Bulls, and the Bucks have the players to do the same. With a starting five that includes Michael Redd, Richard Jefferson, Charlie Villanueva and Andrew Bogut, what's not to like? Bogut quietly averaged a double-double last season with 14 points per game and 10 rebounds, and he's only 23 years and with tons of room to improve on those numbers. The Bucks have four talented players on the roster and have a realistic chance to be the surprise team in the East.
WASHINGTON WIZARDS
Washington had no business being as good as it was last season, but maybe the Wizards can repeat their performance. Once again Gilbert Arenas will be out for the first month or two of the season with knee surgery, thus making every single Wizards fan wonder why a team would give him a contract worth over $100 million when he hasn't played a full season since 2005.
Still, the Wizards return the scoring duo of Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison, who combined to average more than 40 points per game last season. In order for the Wizards to return to the post season, they must have one of their young players step up and have a breakout season. Shooting guard Nick Young and center Andray Blatche have the potential to break out, but they will have to seize the moment and prove themselves to do so.
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