NBA Power Rankings Playoff Edition: Brooklyn Nets Come In Near The Bottom

Apr 15, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; The Pelicans mascot Pierre the Pelicans makes a angel in streamers following a win against the San Antonio Spurs in a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Spurs 108-103 to earn the 8th seed in the Western Conference Playoffs. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

16. Boston Celtics (40-42) 7th Place In Eastern Conference

The Celtics are arguably the biggest surprise in the postseason this year, and with good reason. They were not expected to be anywhere near the postseason, especially after the trade of Rajon Rondo to the Dallas Mavericks for essentially spare parts and some draft picks. Draft picks is what the Celtics have been collecting the past few offseasons, and they have plenty to show for their work. They will be able to infuse those youngsters in with the core they are currently building as this surprise playoff run can only benefit them.

Isaiah Thomas has given them a go-to guy to lean on in crunch time, and they just defeated their first round matchup, the Cleveland Cavaliers, twice in the last week of the regular season. It is hard to imagine them winning the series, but they could present some problems by potentially stealing a home game.

15. New Orleans Pelicans (45-37) 8th Place In Western Conference

The Pelicans had to fight off the Oklahoma City Thunder right up to the last night of the season, clinching their playoff berth thanks to a victory over the defending champion Spurs. This has been a much anticipated appearance to the postseason, as it will be the first one for superstar Anthony Davis. He will be able to showcase his otherworldly talents on a national stage for the first time, going up against potential MVP Stephen Curry. The Pelicans are lacking in playoff experience, and being the eighth seed not much is expected of them.

But, as long as Davis is on the court, they could surprise some people. They will be a tougher out than people think for the Warriors, especially with Jrue Holliday working his way back and solid rotation players such as Tyreke Evans, Eric Gordon, Ryan Anderson and Omer Asik. They may not win many games this time around, but the Pelicans are one of the ascending teams in the Western Conference.

Next: Where Brooklyn At?