NBA Power Rankings: Thunder, Clippers, Celtics Land in Top 5
A look at the latest NBA power rankings, with the Thunder and Clippers making their way into the top five, while the Celtics hold onto the top spot.
Thunder and Clippers Make Power Rankings Impact
In this week's NBA power rankings, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Clippers have both jumped into the top five. The Thunder's success can be largely attributed to the standout play of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has led their recent winning streak. The Clippers, on the other hand, have been boosted by the return of Kawhi Leonard.
The Celtics, meanwhile, continue to hold onto the top spot in the power rankings. They have won 11 of their last 12 games and remain undefeated at home. Despite facing a strong challenge from the Thunder this week, the Celtics are well-rested and in good health.
Notable Players of the Week
Lu Dort of the Thunder has been the standout plus-minus player of the week, with a plus-66 rating. On the other hand, Nick Richards of the Hornets has struggled with a minus-77 rating.
The Thunder and the Hornets have also been featured as the teams to watch this week. The Thunder have a perfect 2-0 record so far, while the Hornets have struggled with a 0-4 record.
Western Conference Dominance
The Western Conference continues to outperform the Eastern Conference in interconference games, with a 72-56 record. Over the last seven days, the West has gone 11-6 against the East.
The toughest schedules in the league so far have been faced by the San Antonio Spurs, Golden State Warriors, and New York Knicks, while the Phoenix Suns, Milwaukee Bucks, and Philadelphia 76ers have had the easiest schedules.
Movement in the Rankings
The Phoenix Suns, Indiana Pacers, and New Orleans Pelicans have made significant jumps in the rankings this week, with the Suns climbing nine spots. On the other hand, the Dallas Mavericks, Golden State Warriors, and Houston Rockets have all fallen in the rankings.
The New York Knicks have been identified as the team to watch this week, after a series of impressive wins. They have games against the Chicago Bulls and Philadelphia 76ers coming up, which will test their current winning streak.
