With the Nets leading the Sixers in the Atlantic by 5 1/2 games with 18 to play, it's hard to imagine New Jersey falling out of that third seed. But who will they face? Sports Illustrated takes its first look at the emerging matchups. Even with the Bucks' problems, SI thinks the Wizards' tough schedule is to Milwaukee's advantage. No matter what, clinching the division early could give Lawrence Frank a chance to rest the Big Three.
- Playoff projections - Brad Weinstein - Sports Illustrated