Eastern Conference Contenders: The Next 2-3 Years

While the Western Conference boasts perennial contenders like the Thunder, Spurs, Nuggets, and potentially the Rockets (depending on Kevin Durant), the East also has its rising powers. Here are the teams poised for contention in the Eastern Conference over the next two to three seasons. The New York Knicks are widely favored to win the Eastern Conference this season. Their starting five is incredibly solid, complemented by the impactful play of their Sixth Man, JC. Jalen Brunson, in particular, is performing at an All-NBA level. The Detroit Pistons have emerged as a dominant force, currently holding the top seed in the East. Both Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren have made significant strides, elevating their game even further this season. They are poised to be a formidable challenge for the Knicks. Though sidelined this season due to Jayson Tatum's injury, the Boston Celtics remain a future threat. If Tatum returns next season, joining forces with Jaylen Brown, Anf, and Derrick White, they will reclaim their contender status. Boston aims to replicate their championship-caliber form from 2024. Teams like the Cavaliers, Magic, and 76ers haven't yet convinced analysts of their long-term contender status. While promising, their consistent elite performance over the next few seasons remains to be seen. NBA EasternConference Knicks Pistons Celtics Brunson Cunningham Duren Tatum Brown KD Thunder Spurs Nuggets Rockets