With the All-Star break approaching, several unresolved roster issues are drawing attention in the Eastern Conference, according to ESPN analysts Tim Bontemps and Vincent Goodwill.
Cleveland: Harden’s Fit Next to Mitchell
Bontemps highlighted the Cleveland Cavaliers, where the immediate focus is James Harden’s integration after the trade deadline. The analyst questioned whether Harden and Donovan Mitchell can thrive together and if the veteran guard can bring steadier play out of young front-court anchors Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Cleveland has shown noticeable energy since the deadline, but it remains unclear whether that surge will last into April.
Philadelphia: Embiid’s Health and George’s Return
The conversation then turned to Philadelphia. Bontemps emphasized that the 76ers’ prospects continue to revolve around Joel Embiid’s availability. Goodwill added another layer, asking how the team will look once Paul George completes his suspension. He noted that betting on Philadelphia has often been “a fool’s errand,” and George’s absence could quickly become the fallback explanation if the club falters.
New York: Towns’ Production and the Robinson Risk
Goodwill also identified an important variable in New York: Karl-Anthony Towns’ ability to recapture last season’s form. If Towns fails to deliver consistent production, the Knicks may lean too heavily on center Mitchell Robinson—an approach Goodwill described as a dangerous gamble.
For now, standings tell only part of the story in the East. The more pressing matter is whether those three questions—Harden’s fit in Cleveland, Embiid’s durability (and George’s return) in Philadelphia, and Towns’ output in New York—receive clear answers as the postseason approaches.
Source: Hoops Wire
