After extending the eventual champion Celtics to 7 games in the 2008 1st round playoffs, Atlanta seemed poised to take the next step and become an NBA power. While they improved their record from 2008 in 2009, they could not beat the Magic for the division title.
The Magic played exceptionally, using Dwight Howard to anchor a much improved defense. Hedo Turkoglu was most valuable offensive player, but he was not re-signed, instead signing with Toronto. Vince Carter will give them another offensive punch, but losing Courtney Lee, one of 2009’s best rookies, and who guarded Kobe Bryant in the NBA FInals, will be costly. The Magic seemed to rush their team to success, when they already had the talent to win for the next 5-8 years.
The Washington Wizards, the NBA’s biggest disapointment in 2009, had some logical excuses. Lots of injuries, and a mid-season coaching were just a few obstacles facing the Wizards last year. Now with veteran head coach Flip Saunders, and Gilbert Arenas back from injury, the Wizards will be much improved, and will make the playoffs easily if healthy.
If Miami’s Dwayne Wade had any help in the playoffs, they could have gone to the NBA Finals. Wade is a top 3 player in the NBA, and since 2006, when he led the Heat to the championship, he has not had a strong team. After Shaq’s departure, Miami has not had a solid center or power forward. They hoped trading for Jermaine O’Neal last year would help that, but it did not. If they add a solid power forward/center, Miami will be competitive enough to convince Wade to re-sign in the summer of 2010.
Charlotte has lots of nice piece. An experienced veteran coach Larry Brown, and solid guards, D.J. Augustine, and Raymond Felton. If Emeka Okafor improves, Charlotte will contend for a playoff spot. Trading for Raja Bell last year was a rare solid trade by Michael Jordan.