Orlando Magic Daily
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2017-18 NBA Eastern Conference Playoff Outlook: Preseason Edition

By Ryan Doyle

ORLANDO, FL - OCTOBER 13: Jonathon Simmons #17 of the Orlando Magic shoots the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the preseason game on October 13, 2017 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - OCTOBER 13: Jonathon Simmons #17 of the Orlando Magic shoots the ball against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the preseason game on October 13, 2017 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Lottery Locks

To the dismay of the fans, all of the following teams will likely be headed to the lottery and become the doormats of the Eastern Conference.

The Atlanta Hawks appear to be starting from scratch after moving on from Paul Millsap and Dwight Howard. Dennis Schroder may be in for a big year, but the Hawks have no semblance of a star.

Next up is the Brooklyn Nets. As the Nets continue their climb from the East’s cellar, they should take a few steps forward this season. D’Angelo Russell can emerge as their top option on offense and veterans Allen Crabbe and DeMarre Carroll should provide steady production.

Take a subway and the New York Knicks could finish right next to the Brooklyn Nets in the standings. The Knicks traded Carmelo Anthony and now have to build around budding superstar Kristaps Porzingis. The rest of the roster is subpar, but the future finally looks bright in the Big Apple.

Next: Locked On Magic: Orlando Magic, NBA predictions

Last and probably least, the Chicago Bulls. It is going to be a long year for Bulls fans. There is next to no talent on this roster and they are the odds-on favorite to land the top pick in next year’s draft. Hopefully, the youth on this roster gets a good look this season. It could help players like Kris Dunn and Lauri Markkanen in the long run.