From CBS Sports · · 2m
NBA Eastern Conference Tiers Shift
Knicks lead Eastern Conference, but new contenders emerge after eventful offseason.
In brief
Knicks lead Eastern Conference, but new contenders emerge after eventful offseason. New York Knicks defend title while Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers emerge as top contenders in the NBA Eastern Conference. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Eastern Conference Shift
The Eastern Conference has long been viewed as the inferior half of the NBA with seven of the last 15 championships won by the East.
Knicks Lead Tier 1
New York Knicks earn tier one status after winning their first championship in more than half a century.
Knicks' Strong Start
Knicks' first five starters remain intact from last season with Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby and Josh Hart.
Knicks' Defense Concerns
Knicks signed Andre Drummond for backup center after Mitchell Robinson left for Boston.
Cavaliers' Contender Status
Cleveland Cavaliers reach first conference finals without LeBron James and have a strong core with Donovan Mitchell, James Harden, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
Cavaliers' Bench Issues
Cavaliers lose key bench players Dean Wade, Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder to injuries or trades.
Celtics' Offseason Drama
Boston Celtics trade Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia for Paul George and picks after failed trade attempt for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Celtics' Center Concerns
Celtics sign Mitchell Robinson from Knicks to address starting center concerns.
Pistons' Challenges
Detroit Pistons have Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren and a roster with questions after offseason contract negotiations.
Raptors' New Leadership
Toronto Raptors return Kawhi Leonard to strengthen defense with Scottie Barnes.
76ers' New-look Team
Philadelphia 76ers feature Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, LeBron James and Joel Embiid.
Heat's Tier 3 Status
Miami Heat enter tier three with Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo and Andrew Wiggins.
Pacers' Potential
Indiana Pacers return Tyrese Haliburton after gap year with new center Ivica Zubac.
Hawks' Strong Defense
Atlanta Hawks feature Jalen Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Dyson Daniels.
Magic's Coaching Change
Orlando Magic replace coach Jamahl Mosley with Sean Sweeney after underachieving.
Tier 4 Teams
Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets face challenges in the Eastern Conference.
The key point
New York Knicks defend title while Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers emerge as top contenders in the NBA Eastern Conference.
