#1 Miami Heat

After bringing in Rashard Lewis and Ray Allen to play alongside LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, the defending NBA champions are the team to beat once again this season without much argument from anyone.

With LeBron in his prime and one of the most talented rosters in the league at his disposal, the Heat will likely cruise through the Eastern Conference competition unless bitten by the injury bug. The Boston Celtics may challenge, but as of right now, no team in the East stands in the way of another trip to the NBA Finals.

#2 San Antonio Spurs

Over the last two seasons, the Spurs have been arguably the most underestimated team in the league and as a result have finished first in the Western Conference in consecutive years.

Although San Antonio is one year closer to the end of an era, Tim Duncan and company are still going strong and should never be counted out. The second spot on this list might be a little high, but they’ve earned it.

#3 Los Angeles Lakers

The acquisitions of Steve Nash and Dwight Howard were huge steps in the right direction as the Lakers’ front office was also able to retain Pau Gasol and Metta World Peace in the process.

Despite a roster filled with superstars, the Lakers went 0-8 in the preseason with little faith being put in the bench as a result.

Chances are the Lakers bounce back in the regular season, but there’s a lot of doubt surrounding the bench moving forward.

#4 Boston Celtics

After losing Allen to the Heat, the Celtics appeared to be a team in danger of rebuilding around Rajon Rondo, but fortunately GM Danny Ainge was able to bring in Courtney Lee and Jason Terry to stop the bleeding.

Boston appears to be the only true contender in the East alongside the defending champs.

#5 Oklahoma City Thunder

Once the James Harden trade was made officially, the Thunder took two steps after taking giant leap forward last season.

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