NBA Power Rankings: Week 8
A recap of the NBA power rankings for Week 8, including analysis and insights into the performance of each team.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves have taken the top spot in the power rankings after winning six straight games and 16 of their last 18. They have the best record (17-4) in games against teams currently over .500 and have been dominant on the defensive end, allowing just 107 points per 100 possessions.
Key takeaway: The Wolves have a challenging stretch ahead with their next 16 games against teams currently over .500.
Boston Celtics
Despite losing their top spot, the Celtics still have a strong record (16-5) and remain undefeated at home. However, they have struggled on the road and had a disappointing loss in the In-Season Tournament quarterfinals. They will face a tough test with five games in seven days, including two against the second-place team in the East.
Key takeaway: The Celtics have a chance to solidify their position as the top team at home with a five-game homestand this week.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets saw their eight-game winning streak come to an end against the Clippers and have now lost three straight games. While Jamal Murray returned to the lineup, they have struggled in games with at least one reserve player on the floor and will need to improve their bench production.
Key takeaway: The Nuggets will look to bounce back with a back-to-back in Atlanta and Chicago.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder managed to split their two games last week despite struggling with their 3-point shooting. They lead the league in turnover differential and have seen strong contributions from their young players, including Chet Holmgren and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Key takeaway: The Thunder will face tough tests against Utah and Sacramento this week.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers had two close wins last week, with Joel Embiid returning from a two-game absence to score 50 points in one game. They have a strong turnover differential and have seen solid contributions from their bench players, including P.J. Tucker and Nicolas Batum.
Key takeaway: The Sixers have a favorable schedule this week with games against Washington and a double-header against Detroit.
Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks had a successful run in the In-Season Tournament, winning the championship. However, their defense has slipped in rebounding and they have struggled to close out games. They will face a challenging homestand this week, but will look to improve their record at home.
Key takeaway: The Bucks will face tough competition with games against the Bulls, Pacers, and Rockets.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers won the inaugural NBA Cup and have climbed in the power rankings with five straight wins. However, they continue to struggle with outside shooting and turnovers. They will face a tough road stretch this week with games against Dallas and San Antonio.
Key takeaway: The Lakers will look to continue their winning streak and improve their road record.
Orlando Magic
The Magic have a strong record (15-7) and are ranked second in the East. However, they had a disappointing loss to Cleveland and will look to bounce back this week. They have seen strong contributions from their bench players and have excelled in rebounding and scoring in the paint.
Key takeaway: The Magic have a challenging schedule this week with games against Cleveland and a double-header against Boston.
Sacramento Kings
The Kings have been successful against teams with losing records, but have struggled against teams with winning records, including the Pelicans. They have shown improvement in the second quarter, but will need to work on their defensive rebounding and strong starts to each half.
Key takeaway: The Kings have a challenging week ahead with games against Brooklyn, the Clippers, and Utah.
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers had a successful run in the In-Season Tournament, beating the Celtics and Bucks to reach the championship game. They have a strong offense and have seen strong contributions from Tyrese Haliburton and their starting lineup. However, their defense in the paint remains a weakness.
Key takeaway: The Pacers face a tough road stretch this week with games against Detroit, Milwaukee, and Washington.
