The NBA’s Southeast Division hit rock bottom last season, setting records for all the wrong reasons. Imagine a division where the champion barely broke even with a 41-41 record—that was Orlando. But here’s where it gets even more staggering: the combined winning percentage of all five teams—Orlando, Atlanta, Miami, Charlotte, and Washington—was a dismal .378, the worst in NBA history since divisions were established in 1970. And this is the part most people miss: Washington alone was outscored by a jaw-dropping 909 points against teams from other divisions, a record that screams for attention. Charlotte and Washington both failed to win 20 games, making the Southeast the first division in a decade to have two such underperforming teams.
“We want to be better than that,” Charlotte coach Charles Lee declared, a sentiment echoed across the division. But is it enough to turn things around? The Southeast has been struggling for nearly a decade, with only Miami in 2021-22 breaking the 50-win barrier in the last 10 years. Compare that to divisions like the Atlantic, Central, Northwest, and Pacific, which boasted multiple 50-win teams last season alone. Is the Southeast Division destined to remain the NBA’s underdog, or can they rise from the ashes?
While division titles no longer guarantee perks like home-court advantage—thanks to the league’s focus on conference standings—it’s still noteworthy that Orlando became the first division champion since 1975-76 to finish at or below .500. The Magic are favored to repeat, thanks to their young stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, and a healthier season could propel them further. “I think the East is really strong, and there are a lot of teams about to pop—hopefully, we’re one of them,” said Magic president Jeff Weltman.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Orlando truly dominate a division that’s been historically weak? And what about the rest of the Southeast? Let’s break it down:
1. Orlando Magic
The Magic enter the season with sky-high expectations after adding Desmond Bane to their already talented roster. Despite injuries derailing their 2023-24 campaign, they still clinched the division title before falling to Boston in the playoffs. With a balanced offense, elite defense, and depth, coach Jamahl Mosley has the tools for a deep playoff run. But can they overcome the injury bug that’s plagued them?
2. Atlanta Hawks
Coach Quin Snyder is under pressure to end the Hawks’ four-year streak of play-in tournament appearances. Atlanta had a strong offseason, adding Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard. With Trae Young leading the league in assists and Dyson Daniels emerging as a defensive powerhouse, the Hawks look poised to compete. But will their new additions mesh well enough to secure a playoff spot?
3. Miami Heat
The Jimmy Butler trade last season failed to deliver, with Andrew Wiggins sidelined by injuries and the Heat swept by Cleveland in the playoffs. Tyler Herro’s offseason surgery adds another layer of uncertainty, though Bam Adebayo remains a defensive anchor and Norman Powell provides scoring. Is this roster built to bounce back, or are the Heat in for another rough season?
4. Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets’ playoff hopes hinge on LaMelo Ball’s health. The injury-prone star has missed 53% of games over the past three seasons. Brandon Miller’s return from wrist surgery gives them another scoring threat, but the lack of a solid center remains a glaring weakness. Can Ball stay healthy long enough to lead Charlotte to relevance?
5. Washington Wizards
With just 33 wins over the past two seasons, the Wizards are banking on youth. Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, Bilal Coulibaly, and Kyshawn George bring energy, but their combined 221 starts last season highlight their inexperience. Is this young core the future, or are the Wizards years away from contention?
The Southeast Division is at a crossroads. While optimism abounds, the road to redemption is fraught with challenges. Do you think the Southeast can reclaim its pride, or will it remain the NBA’s weakest link? Share your thoughts below!
