1. Atlanta Hawks (47-12)
While the Atlanta Hawks have undoubtedly slowed down since the beginning of the season, they are still the cream of the crop in the Eastern Conference. The team faces a tough upcoming slate of Western Conference teams, but will likely cruise to the finish line with the first seed.
2. Cleveland Cavaliers (37-24)
The Cavaliers made a serious statement in their win over the Western Conference leading Warriors. Unfortunately, they followed that up with a frustrating dud in a loss to the Indiana Pacers. The Cavs are in the midst of their toughest stretch of the season, but are in position to finish strong and lock up the two seed.
3. Toronto Raptors (38-22)
The Raptors are officially suffering from Bipolar Disorder. After four straight wins against the Clippers, Spurs, Wizards, and Hawks, the Raptors dropped five against the Rockets, Pelicans, Mavericks, Warriors, and Knicks. If the team can raise its level of play for the tough stretch of games to start the month of March, they may be able to hold off the rising Cavaliers and lock up the two seed.
4. Chicago Bulls (37-23)
With the news Monday that Jimmy Butler will miss extended time with a sprained left elbow, the Bulls championship aspirations are starting to wane. While the news is not as depressing as the Rose diagnosis earlier in the week, the absence of Jimmy Butler is far more impactful in the midst of his All-Star season. With a brutal upcoming stretch of games, look for the Bulls to slide back in the rankings in the month of March.
5. Indiana Pacers (25-34)
The Indiana Pacers led the NBA in winning percentage in the month of February. I’ll say that one more time. THE INDIANA PACERS WHO DO NOT HAVE ALL-STAR PAUL GEORGE, AND ARE PLAYING SOLOMON HILL SIGNIFICANT MINUTES, LED THE NBA IN WINNING PERCENTAGE IN FEBRUARY. Are we sure Frank Vogel didn’t sacrifice 50 virgins to the Blood God at the start of the season?
