This is the first installation of a series of posts of hot takes. I’ll be posting takes for each team, by division, with one take per division as the featured take with a longer explanation attached. Hoping to get this done by opening night, and also hoping to make this an annual series should Fanspo and I both survive another year.

Boston Celtics

The Celtics won’t make the playoffs, a play-in exit despite Jaylen Brown making MVP buzz.

Brooklyn Nets

Michael Porter Jr. averages 27 and 8 and is an All-Star in his first season as a Net.

New York Knicks

KAT averages 28 and makes All-NBA 2nd team for the first time in his career.

Philadelphia 76ers (Featured Take)

Assuming no Embiid medical retirement, the Sixers come out of the East and make the Finals.

This organization has one of the most electric rosters in the NBA when healthy. Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, Joel Embiid, and even Quentin Grimes each served as the number one option in Philly at different points last season. Combine all of these guys with very solid role players like Paul George, Kelly Oubre, Guerschon Yabusele, etc and you have a team that can easily compete with the likes of the Knicks and Cavs while possessing the most star power of the bunch. The result of this run depends on who makes it out of the West, but Joel Embiid may be on the path to a championship this year.

Toronto Raptors

RJ Barrett is widely recognized as the Raptors best player in 2026.