The West is as strong as ever this year with familiar faces like the San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets. New faces like the Minnesota Timberwolves have also emerged as hopeful challengers to the top spot. But let’s be realistic for a second: The Warriors will return to their fourth straight NBA Finals. On the other side of the country, however, the Eastern Conference seems to be a bit of a toss-up on who will join Golden State in the Finals.

Cleveland Cavaliers: LeBron James and the Cavaliers were the early favorites, as they have represented the East in the past three NBA Finals. But early-season woes have exposed their inefficiency to play reliable defense. The supporting cast was dubbed one of the best in the league, but James seems to be carrying the team on his back more evidently than in the past, which could prove to be the team’s downfall.
Boston Celtics: The best candidate to defeat the Cavaliers at the start of the season was Boston. After obtaining Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward, it seemed like the Celtics had finally matched the Cavs. Unfortunately, Hayward suffered a severe ankle  fracture in the season opener, putting a dent in the Celtics’ Finals hopes. Despite this loss, Irving has shined as the number one option, backed up by forwards Jaylen Brown and Al Horford.
Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks have entered the Eastern Conference race as a result of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s inhuman numbers to start the season. Antetokounmpo’s incredible athletic prowess has left defenses puzzled as to how to guard the “Greek Freak,” and he has emerged as a legitimate MVP candidate. Khris Middleton and newly acquired Eric Bledsoe round off a solid Bucks squad.
Washington Wizards: John Wall and Bradley Beal bring back another gritty Wizards team. The Wizards present one of the more all-around teams in the NBA, which can pose a threat to the East’s throne. Marcin Gortat and Otto Porter Jr. offer a solid supporting cast.