Toronto Raptors: 17-19 (T-8th place in the Eastern Conference)

After starting the year 2-8, the Toronto Raptors have seemed to figure things out and are back on-track to making the playoffs for the 8th consecutive year. However, they still have work to do to solidify their playoff spot and could be a team that looks to make a significant move at the trade deadline. 

Recent trade buzz has the Raptors targeting former All-Star center Andre Drummond, which would be a huge get for them as he is a double-double machine and could help them in rebounding, something they currently rank last in the league in. 

Assuming the Raptors improve their frontcourt and hold onto Kyle Lowry in the process, there is no reason that they should not be in the playoffs once again, especially with key role players in Norman Powell, O.G. Anunoby and Chris Boucher all stepping up into bigger roles this year. 

Norman Powell had a breakout year last season and is having an even better season this year with the Raptors. He has played in all but two games for the Raptors to this point in the season and is currently averaging 18.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and shooting 43.8% from three-point range. 

RELATED: NBA Analysis: 3 intriguing trade scenarios for Raptors to consider for Kyle Lowry

If Powell can continue to put up huge numbers for the Raptors, they will not only be a playoff team, but a team that none of the top teams in the East will want to play. Toronto won the 2019 NBA Finals and while their team is very different now, they still have the firepower and experienced players to make another deep playoff run. 

Expect to see the Raptors continue to improve during the second-half of the NBA season and expect to see them as the 4-seed or 5-seed come playoff time.