It wasn't even close a year ago, as the Boston Celtics led the Atlantic Division from start to finish, winning the title by 25 games over second-place Toronto.

But things could be different this time around. It could be argued that all four of the Celtics' division rivals are better than a year ago.

So expect Boston to "only" win the division by 15 or 20 games this time around.

The real battle will be between the Raptors and 76ers for second place. Both teams added a veteran inside scoring threat will All-Star credentials who has had health issues in recent seasons. The Sixers signed free agent Elton Brand and the Raptors landed Jermaine O'Neal in a trade with the Pacers. Meanwhile, the arrival of former Suns coach Mike D'Antonio gives the Knicks some reason for optimism as well. After all, things can't get any worse than they were under Isiah Thomas.

Here's a team-by-team look in predicted order of finish:

BOSTON CELTICS

Last season: 66-16, won NBA title

Top player: Kevin Garnett. On a team with a trio of All-Stars, Garnett is the do-everything glue who can score (18.8 ppg), rebound (9.2 rpg), pass (3.4 apg) and defend.

Supporting cast: Paul Pierce (19.6 ppg) and Ray Allen (17.4 ppg) are veteran stars who showed they still have something left in their tanks. Point guard Rajon Rondo is quick to the hoop and gives the Cetics a fourth scoring threat, while Kendrick Perkins and Glen "Big Baby" Davis take up space in the middle.

Bottom line: Doc Rivers' Cetics are once again the team to beat in the Eastern Conference and could win another NBA crown.

TORONTO RAPTORS

Last season: 41-41, lost to Orlando 4-1 in the first round of the playoffs

Top player: Chris Bosh. The young power forward was outstanding last season, averaging 22.3 points and 8.7 boards per game.

Supporting cast: Spanish point guard Jose Calderon (11.2, ppg, 8.3 apg) is one of the best at distributing the ball in the East. New center Jermaine O'Neal has been injury-prone in recent seasons, but a change of scenery could help re-motivate the former All-Star. Anthony Parker, Jarmario Moon and Jason Kapono are capable wing players.

Bottom line: The two big questions are whether Bosh and O'Neal can co-exist down low and if O'Neal can stay healthy. If the two big guys don't get in each other's way, Toronto could be a first-round playoff winner.

PHILADELPHIA 76ERS