Charlotte Hornets: Eastern Conference power rankings post-free agency

LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets, Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets, Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /
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Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

The star-studded roster of Brooklyn powers the Nets to the top of the Eastern Conference while the reigning champions in Milwaukee round out the top three alongside Miami.

2020-21 Standing: 2nd. 48-24. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. player. 147. Brooklyn Nets. 1

The talents of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden are too strong to have any team sitting on top of the Brooklyn Nets. Brooklyn’s three stars are looking to return to next season healthier and ready to push for an NBA title. Brooklyn was able to retain the services of Blake Griffin, and still have Joe Harris and a talented squad surrounding their stars. The Nets should be heavy favorites to come out of the East this season.

89. Milwaukee Bucks. 2. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 2020-21 Standing: 3rd. 46-26. player

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the reigning NBA Champion Milwaukee Bucks will be looking to defend their crown this upcoming season. While the Bucks have lost P.J. Tucker, they have added solid veterans in George Hill and Rodney Hood who should be able to give them crucial minutes throughout the season. On top of that Milwaukee will see their entire core return including Kris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, Bobby Portis, and will have Donte DiVincenzo return from injury.

Pick Analysis. Miami Heat. 3. player. 110. Scouting Report. 2020-21 Standing: 6th. 40-32

The Miami Heat are gearing up for another title run with the additions of veteran stars Kyle Lowry, P.J. Tucker, and Markeiff Morris. Miami will see the bulk of their core return for next season and will sleep comfortably knowing they have locked up Jimmy Butler and Duncan Robinson to long-term deals. Miami also has Victor Oladipo recovering from injury and if he can return to form, the Heat could be the team to beat in next year’s playoffs.