Three NBA teams (including a massive surprise) that could win East next season

This iteration of the Cavaliers, led by Coach of the Year Kenny Atkinson, has yet to break through during the postseason, but given the expected power vacuum in the conference next season, they are in great shape.

New York Knicks | Last season: 51-31 (third in East) 

New York’s season ended unceremoniously, losing in six games in the conference finals to the Pacers. Then, three days later, the Knicks fired head coach Tom Thibodeau. The sky is not falling in New York, however — far from it. The Knicks made the conference finals for the first time in 25 years and have all their key contributors under contract for next season.

Once the Knicks have a head coach, a development which recent reporting suggests is finally gaining traction, New York should be a candidate for conference supremacy.

With guard Jalen Brunson and forward/center Karl Anthony-Towns leading the way, guard Mikal Bridges and guard/forward OG Anunoby wreaking havoc as 3-and-D weapons and the voice of a new (veteran) head coach in their locker room, the Knicks will be a threat to win the East.

Philadelphia 76ers | 24-58 (13th in East)

Cringe at this inclusion if you must. The 76ers were likely the most disappointing team of the 2024-2025 season, but they have the immensely talented trio of center Joel Embiid, forward/guard Paul George and guard Tyrese Maxey. 

Any discussion involving two-thirds of that unit (Embiid and George) must begin with “if health permits,” but given they’re expected to be healthy to begin the 2025-2026 season, Philadelphia's potential is tantalizing. Throw in the multitude of possibilities involving the 76ers’ first-round pick in the NBA Draft (third overall), and a sizable leap seems reasonable. 

It may be trendy to include the younger, up-and-coming Orlando Magic or Detroit Pistons in a discussion about conference supremacy, but the 76ers hold a slight advantage over those teams because of their top-end veterans.