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New York Knicks: Eastern Conference Playoff Projections

By Maurice Moton

Dec 4, 2015; New York, NY, New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) shoots a free throw in the second half at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks win 108-91. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2015; New York, NY, New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) shoots a free throw in the second half at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks win 108-91. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports /
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Atlanta Hawks guard Dennis Schroder (17) reacts on the court against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. The Celtics defeated the Hawks 111-103.
Apr 22, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Dennis Schroder (17) reacts on the court against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. The Celtics defeated the Hawks 111-103. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /

Atlanta Hawks: No. 3 (Southeast Division Champions)

The Atlanta Hawks will claim the Southeast Division and clinch the final seed among the top three in the conference.

As previously mentioned, Horford signed with the Celtics. The Hawks also lost point guard Jeff Teague to the Pacers. With Howard moving into the 5-spot with something to prove and Dennis Schroder in the starting lineup, Atlanta should have enough to win the division outright.

Skeptics have thrown in the towel on Howard, but he’s still a viable two-way player, who can contribute a double-double on a consistent basis. In every season of his 12-year career, he’s averaged double digits in points and rebounds.

Expect a mini reboot in his hometown. As the biggest personality on the roster, Howard will garner the spotlight.

In an underrated re-signing, the team also kept forward Kent Bazemore on the books. The starting five will depend on his defensive presence against high-volume scoring wing players.

Next: No. 4

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