Although the Celtics clinched a playoff berth last season, it’s no guarantee they’ll return this year.
While a maturing young core should strengthen the Celtics, an improving Eastern Conference will make it tougher to clinch the 2016 playoffs. In order to return, the Celtics will need to keep playing at the same level they played after the All-Star break.
With the level of disparity between talent in the Western and Eastern Conference evening-out, expect to see a higher-standard of parity throughout this season.
However, the Cavaliers will likely take a big step forward, while the 76ers will, well, probably take a step sideways.