As we hit the midpoint of the NBA season, it’s time to take stock of where teams stand - not just in the standings, but in the context of their own expectations. The Atlantic Division has been one of the most intriguing in the league this year, blending powerhouse contenders, scrappy rebuilds, and everything in between. Let’s break down how each squad is faring so far.
Boston Celtics (25-15): A+
Let’s be honest - nobody saw this coming. The Celtics have been one of the league’s biggest surprises, not just surviving without some of their biggest names, but thriving.
They’ve been without 60% of their starting lineup, including heavyweights like Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, and Kristaps Porzingis. Add in the absences of key veterans Al Horford and Luke Kornet, and you’d expect Boston to be treading water. Instead, they’re sitting second in the East and playing with a confidence that suggests they’re not going anywhere.
Jaylen Brown and Derrick White have stepped up in a major way. Brown’s shot-making has been sharp, and White continues to be one of the most underrated two-way guards in the league. The Celtics were criticized last year for being too top-heavy, but this version is showing real resilience and depth.
If Tatum returns looking like himself and Boston can add a reliable big before the deadline, they’ll be a nightmare matchup for anyone come playoff time. Right now, they’re playing with house money - and they’re making it count.
Brooklyn Nets (12-27): B+
Don’t let the record fool you - this is a team with a plan.
The Nets are leaning into their youth movement, and while the losses are piling up, the development is real. This group is long, athletic, and full of raw potential. It’s not always pretty, but there’s a foundation being laid in Brooklyn.
Egor Demin has looked promising, especially when he’s aggressive getting into the paint. Drake Powell is showing flashes of being a prototypical 3-and-D wing, and Danny Wolf has had moments that make you think he could be a rotation guy down the line.
There are decisions looming for GM Sean Marks. Does he cash in on Nic Claxton or Cam Thomas?
Is Michael Porter Jr. a long-term piece or a trade chip? With the deadline approaching, Brooklyn could swing in a few different directions.
But for now, they’ve struck a solid balance between developing young talent and staying competitive enough to keep games interesting.
New York Knicks (25-16): B
There’s a lot to like about this Knicks team - and a few reasons to be cautious.
Jalen Brunson has been everything New York hoped for and more. He’s an All-NBA-level closer who can take over games late, and he’s surrounded by a strong supporting cast. The Knicks’ top seven is rock solid, and Tom Thibodeau has started to trust some of the younger players with meaningful minutes - a welcome change for fans who’ve been waiting to see more development.
But there are cracks in the armor. In a recent loss to Sacramento, Brunson left early with an ankle injury, and the offense fell apart.
Without him, the Knicks lack a true creator, and the offense can get stuck in the mud. When that happens, missed shots and turnovers fuel transition opportunities for the other team, and suddenly the defense - normally a strength - starts to bend.
This team is good, no doubt. But how far they go may depend on Brunson’s health and whether they can find another reliable offensive option to lighten his load.
Philadelphia 76ers (22-18): B+
The Sixers are a tough team to pin down - but they’re undeniably talented.
Joel Embiid has stayed relatively healthy, and while he’s not quite the high-flying force he was a couple of years ago, he’s evolved into a dominant low-post presence. He’s playing smarter, not harder, and it’s paying off.
Paul George has been a seamless fit, giving the Sixers a third option who can knock down open shots, defend at a high level, and create when needed. It took a little longer than expected for this trio to come together, but they’re starting to click.
And then there’s Tyrese Maxey. The breakout is real.
He’s putting up All-NBA numbers and doing it with flair. His speed, shot-making, and playmaking have made him one of the most exciting young guards in the league.
Rookie VJ Edgecombe is another bright spot - in most years, he’d be leading the Rookie of the Year conversation.
There’s still some mystery around what this team’s ceiling is, but the pieces are there. If they stay healthy and keep building chemistry, they’ll be a dangerous out in the playoffs.
Toronto Raptors (25-18): B+
This isn’t your older brother’s Raptors team. The days of slow, methodical half-court offense are gone. Now, Toronto is all about defense, athleticism, and pace.
They rank fifth in the league in defensive rating, and it shows. They swarm the ball, switch everything, and make life miserable for opposing offenses. Once they get a stop, they’re off to the races - even if the offense itself isn’t always the smoothest.
Truth be told, they’re still figuring things out with the ball in hand. The transition game is more about volume than precision, but when you’re forcing turnovers and getting out in space as often as they are, it works.
They’ve taken advantage of a favorable schedule so far - Tankathon has them pegged with the sixth-easiest remaining slate - but credit where it’s due. They’re playing hard, playing together, and giving fans in The North a reason to believe this season could lead to something more than just development.
Final Word
The Atlantic Division has given us a little bit of everything this season - from Boston’s resilience to Brooklyn’s rebuild, from New York’s grit to Philly’s star power, and Toronto’s defensive resurgence. As the second half of the season unfolds, each of these teams will have to answer some big questions. But one thing’s clear: the Atlantic is shaping up to be one of the most compelling divisions in the league.