Title races in 2022 & beyond

[Crow]

2020 may not be far enough out to be different enough from now. So if you want to talk 76ers and other early phase possible contenders, this might be the right place.

[jgoldstein34]

If we're trying to identify the top 5 teams that aren't currently contenders, but likely will be in 5 years, who would y'all pick?

I'd personally go with 76ers, Timberwolves, Bucks, Nuggets with the Pacers as my dark horse, entirely because I believe in Myles Turner.

[Crow]

Those are main teams for this timeslot.

Some teams who are not widely included in 2020 might not make 2022 either. Which is more likely for Blazers? Is the answer neither? Can Dallas get back in the hunt by 2022? I dunno. Would have to be thru free agency. Will Lakes in 2022 still be second or third tier? Are the Wiz gone as noteworthy by 2022 or sooner?

Are the Celtics #1 for 2022 is you include them here?

How many, if any, current major pieces in Miami are still there in 2022?

[Crow]

From a peak planning prospective, you probably want your stars to be I 6th-9th season (on second contract) and your primary role players to be in 3rd /4th season or older quality vets taking less money.

Philly could be headed to that. Celtics stars will be too way old for 2022 unless changed out.

[jgoldstein34]

Which is more likely [2020 or 2022] for Blazers? Is the answer neither?

I'd say 2022 just because they're more likely to have a new core by then. I'd expected neither if I don't have to pick.

Can Dallas get back in the hunt by 2022? I dunno. Would have to be thru free agency.

I'd say probably, they're at the right timeline to be ready or on the verge if being ready by then. Depends on who they draft this year.

Will Lakes in 2022 still be second or third tier?

At best, 2nd tier if they keep this core together. I don't like this core at all for every winning much.

Are the Wiz gone as noteworthy by 2022 or sooner?

John Wall will be 31 in 2022, Beal will be 28. Could easily still be noteworthy if Beal keeps improving.

Are the Celtics #1 for 2022 is you include them here?

I don't think the Celtics will be contending in 2022 unless Brown or a future draft pick is the real deal. After trading #1 this year, not sure there will be a franchise guy available at #3 and that's what they need.

How many, if any, current major pieces in Miami are still there in 2022?

Maybe Tyler Johnson, Josh Richardson and Winslow? Are they major pieces? I think Miami is likely to be good in 2022, but not with their current team.

[Crow]

Thanks for the replies.