Soaring Down South
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Southeast Division Forecast: How do the Hawks Stack Up?

By Collin Huguley

Apr 22, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer watches from the sideline during the second quarter as they take on the Boston Celtics in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Atlanta Hawks head coach Mike Budenholzer watches from the sideline during the second quarter as they take on the Boston Celtics in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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March 27, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) shoots a three point basket against Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
March 27, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) shoots a three point basket against Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Washington Wizards

2015-2016 Record: 41-41

Predicted 2016-2017 Record: 44-38

The forgotten team in the Eastern Conference Playoff Picture.

The Washington Wizards were decimated by injuries last season, but still boast one of the best backcourts in the NBA. Brad Beal is a terrific perimeter scorer and the perfect Robin to John Wall‘s Batman. Wall remains one of the absolute best point guards in the NBA. His ability as a creator on offense coupled with elite defense, makes him a dark-horse MVP candidate if he can stay healthy.

The team had a fairly quiet off-season, but made some nice depth signings. Ian Mahinmi will now team with Marcin Gortat to man the middle for the Wizards. Both are capable starters and the team will not lose much when one comes out o the game in favor of the other. The also made a nice under-the-radar signing in Andrew Nicholson, a solid stretch four. Add the new found frontcourt depth to the terrific backcourt, and you have a well-rounded team.

The small forward position has also become interesting. Otto Porter is a solid starting 3 already, but could be pushed by Kelly Oubre this season. Oubre looked terrific in the Summer League and possesses the athletic gifts to succeed in the NBA. He has the look of a good 3-and-D player that has become so valuable in today’s NBA.

The addition of Scott Brooks as coach might be the biggest addition of the summer. A proven winner with OKC and a former point guard that should work well with Wall. Randy Wittman‘s struggles as coach were well-documented and Brooks feels like the guy for Washington.

This team had a rocky road last season but if they are healthy, they are very dangerous.

Next: No. 1

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