How do the Indiana Pacers stack up in the new East?

 Tier 2: Playoff Caliber

Detroit Pistons | Miami Heat | Orlando Magic | Toronto Raptors

This entire quartet has the right stuff to make the postseason if they can just put it all together. The Magic were a surprising playoff team last year, but run back largely the same team but with an improved bench. Like last year, Orlando’s a little light at the point, and they’ll need great team play to overcome their obvious deficiency. It worked last year, but their season will depend on a repeat performance.

Defending champion Toronto suffered the largest loss of the offseason when Kawhi Leonard left for the Clippers. But the Raptors will be running back a balanced team of champions, unless they elect to blow up the remaining veterans on their roster to begin a renovation.

The Pistons have a strong post, explosive points, and iffy wings. Detroit might be oddly constructed, but Blake Griffin regained his all-star form last season. For the Pistons to succeed, Detroit needs at least one more strong season from their star forward.

Then there is the Heat. Miami seems to not be set, especially with their name prominent in the “possible Russell Westbrook destination” conversation. The Heat are TBD until they are more solidified.