Power Rankings Week 2
Dec 12, 2013 1:42:22 GMT
Post by runsNgoses on Dec 12, 2013 1:42:22 GMT
What a week it was for some teams in the league. Lots of ups and lots of downs for GMs around the league. For some...it's going to be a looong season full of loss after loss, and for others, they're going to continue riding the success of their rosters and continue chasing the first ever, NAH Championship. Without further due, let's dive right into this.
The Celtics, Pelicans, and Warriors were the hot teams of the week thanks to James, Rose, and Iguodala.
LeBron James Credit//Derrick Rose Credit//Andre Iguodala Credit
1) Boston Celtics (-) (10-1)
The Boston Celtics continue to run the league, thanks in huge part to LeBron James and Tyson Chandler. They've run through every single opponent they've gone against. They're only loss came against the Detroit Pistons on the road, but they proved that it was likely a fluke by smashing them days later in Boston with James scoring at will. The Celtics are the clear front runner and favorites to win it all this year despite starting PF Thomas Robinson going down for a couple of months. They'll manage.
2) New Orleans Pelicans (4) (8-1)
The Pelicans have continued to show their dominance so far, and have put their names securely in the talks for a title. With their only loss of the week coming against the Kings, they've managed to steamroll over victims like the Celtics have done. Despite Rose playing shooting guard for the Pelicans, he's still running the offense and making the plays, although Mike Conley Jr's assists have gone up since the last rankings were released. Gotta note Rose's 41 point spanking of the Thunder too.
3) Charlotte Hornets (-) (8-2)
The old men of the league continue to play very well, despite the starters playing large minutes (Granger and Dirk are top 10). The scoring has evened out pretty well between their big three of Bryant, Nowitzki, and Granger, with Kidd trying to make his way into the top 10 in assists. Their only losses of the week came against the team above them (by 6) and division rival, the Atlanta Hawks by just 2 points. The Hornets are proving to be a tough team to score on still, only allowing about 84 points to be scored.
4) Brooklyn Nets (2) (8-3)
The Nets are still trying to keep up with the Boston Celtics of the incredibly tough Atlantic Division. Durant is doing everything he can to narrow the gap between the two. The dude is a scoring machine, looking at their schedule, and you see nothing but Durant on the scoring leader for the game. He's insane. Their losses came against back to back losses against the Hawks and a very inconsistent Lakers squad. Those three crucial losses are likely a result of the Nets not having a true 2nd option, unless Parker can find his touch.
5) Golden State Warriors (10) (9-1)
The Warriors are a prime example of the term "defense wins", because they still don't have a player averaging over 20 a game yet they have the third best record in the league. In fact, I think the Warriors, will likely climb even higher up in the next rankings if they continue to play the way they have been. They have a chip on their shoulder, they weren't in discussions for the championship...they weren't even predicted to win their division, but they certainly are. They're a scary team to face, their only loss of the week was against Boston. If I'm a team in the West come playoff time...DO NOT WANT.
6) Philadelphia 76ers (11) (8-2)
It's easy to forget about the 76ers due to them playing in the Atlantic Division, but they are still a huge threat. And actually, are just .5 games behind the Nets. Dwyane Wade is showing that he can still lead a team to the promise land. A combination of defense and scoring, they've got the veteran players to help keep this team afloat in the tough Eastern Conference. Their two losses came against two teams in the top 5 in the Warriors and Hornets...both were close games too. Don't sleep on this team either.
7) Atlanta Hawks (8) (8-3)
Here is a team that's pretty underrated in my opinion. They've got their elite scorer in Melo and their scrappy defenders in the rest of the starting 5. With statement wins against the Hornets, Nets (back to back), and the rising Cavaliers, they got embarrassed by LeBron and the Celtics and blew a lead to the Bulls in Chicago. Still though, they are right there with the Hornets for the Southeast Division title, just a game behind them too. It's looking like it'll be a tight finish for the division title.
8) Chicago Bulls (9) (7-4)
They're still a fun team to watch, Kyrie Irving knows how to put on a show and wow the crowd. Yeah, he's struggling a bit on the scoring side, but as long as the Bulls are winning, I don't see a huge problem with that. I mean, sure, the Bulls would be in the talks of the elite teams in the league if Irving shot better (just barely 40%) but as long as they make the playoffs, they'll certainly give whoever they're up against, a run for their money. The season is still early for Irving and the Bulls, so we'll see what happens.
9) Cleveland Cavaliers (19) (7-3)
The Cavaliers, who made the biggest jump in these rankings this week, had a nice win streak going until they hit Brooklyn that led them to 3 straight losses after (Nets, Pistons, Hawks). The biggest surprise with this Cavs team though, is Irsan Ilyasova, and how he's elevated his game this season, currently leading the team in scoring with James Harden, Kemba Walker, and Luol Deng. Not only that, but his rebounding has been incredible too, not only leading the Cavs, but 5th in the league too. If Harden gets going and Ilyasova can keep this up...the Cavs may have something here...
10) Dallas Mavericks (5) (4-6)
It's looking like this could be a long season for the Mavericks. They haven't put any sort of streak together, win or lose. With Joe Johnson struggling on the offensive end of the court now...it's looking like the gamble might not have been worth it after all. If the Mavericks fail to make the post season, they'll be a young team stuck with two ugly contracts in Johnson and Amare...unless they can trade one of the two, or both for more youth or picks...but good luck trying to sell that. Unless you can sell a ketchup popsicle to a woman in white gloves...
11) Houston Rockets (18) (7-5)
The Rockets, despite their slightly above average week, made the list of the highest rises of the week...mainly due to other teams having a much worse week than them. It seems injuries has had to due with some of it too, but I still really like this team. I mean, if they can find a better shooting guard by trading either Dragic or Augustine (because let's face it, DJ isn't a two guard at all), I think they'd be much better off. Although...they are on a current 4 game winning streak, so maybe it's working for them. Hmmm...
12) Minnesota Timberwolves (6) (4-5)
A team that came back to reality a little bit. I knew that having Jamal Crawford as your starting point guard, wasn't a recipe for success. In my opinion, they are a point guard away from making a huge splash in the weaker Western Conference. Crawford is a 6th man, it's a known fact. He likes to come off the bench and score in bunches. Nate McMillan learned that the hard way back during the NBA 11-12 Trail Blazers season (his last season with the team). The Wolves need a PG...badly.
13) Utah Jazz (7) (4-8)
The Jazz have one of the most efficient players in the league in Rajon Rondo...but the only thing keeping Rondo's name out of serious MVP talks, is Utah's record. I mean, yeah, the dude pulled off an impressive feat of scoring two triple doubles in a row...but his first one came at a loss to the Cavs (18p, 20a, 10r on 7-20 shooting) and 5 point win against the Suns (18p, 11a, 11r). To me, an MVP leads his team to victory and into the post season...and the Jazz...are currently struggling (on a four game losing streak). They need a big man to protect the paint.
14) Los Angeles Lakers (-) (5-4)
Well, the Lakers are staying above .500 basketball, which is what I thought they would do with Bosh being out. He's still got a month to go on his recovery from a broken ankle, so if the Lakers can continue to stay at about .500 by the time he returns, they should have an easier time climbing back up the shallow Western Conference ladder. It's all thanks to Lawson and Bynum too. Their latest win was easily their most impressive, coming against one of the best in the league in Brooklyn, a true team effort at home for the Lakers.
15) Denver Nuggets (17) (6-5)
The Nuggets are currently riding a 4 game winning streak, with wins over the Spurs, Lakers, Bulls, and Clippers. Starting BDiddy at point and putting Linsanity at the two...seems to be paying off for them right now. Most impressive so far though, is the emergence of big Greg Monroe, leading the Nuggets in scoring and rebounding, he's making a case for the All-Star game, showing that he has what it takes to lead a team...And they could slip right into the post season too, thanks to being in the West.
16) Detroit Pistons (13) (4-6)
Deron Williams, is finally playing like Deron Williams...unfortunately, it's not producing wins for the team right now. They're on a three game losing skid at the moment, but they do have wins of the Cavaliers, the Lakers, and are the only team to hand Boston their first loss of the season. So maybe they'll come around as the season goes on and as DWill finds his groove. It'll be tough to make the playoffs in the East, but I could definitely see them making it as the 8th seed, only problem is they'd be matched up against Boston and King James.
17) New York Knicks (12) (4-7)
The Knicks have surprised me...but not in a good way. They have a team that, on paper, looks as if they should be producing some wins, but they aren't. Maybe a trade of some sort to help surround Dwight with a better scoring option as David Lee isn't producing what he should be. They need a player who can put up around 18-20 a game to go along with Dwight. I predicted that all of the Atlantic Division would make the post season...but it's looking like I was wrong wrong wrong.
18) Washington Wizards (23) (5-4)
The Wizards are another team that climbed the rankings due to other teams having much poorer weeks, as they are currently at .500 right now. After winning 5 games in a row, they are currently on a 4 game losing skid. Kevin Love and Brook Lopez are the two stars getting it done, but they need help, somewhere. Having Thabo and Avery in the starting lineup for their defense is hurting them on offense. It's starting to show as they've been pounded in their last 4 games.
19) San Antonio Spurs (24) (5-5)
John Henson continues to outshine Anthony Davis coming off the bench. Everyone in their starting lineup, with the exception of Oden, is under performing this season. Collison, Matthews, Parsons, and Davis, should be producing a better record than what they currently have. The season is still young and they have plenty of time to turn things around, but this is a time when they should try to take advantage of teams slipping in the West due to injuries. The anticipation of Davis hitting his potential, is driving everyone crazy...when when when?!!?
20) Milwaukee Bucks (21) (6-6)
This is another team, patiently waiting for their star player to hit their potential in Paul George. Once he does, I think the Bucks will be a dark horse team in the league. Sneaking by wins against some of the better teams in the league. They just need to find a better power forward to go along with Gortat, because Singleton isn't cutting it, at all. Gotta give them a little bit of credit though, they kept relatively close to Boston and Charlotte when they played them. So that's always a plus.
21) Phoenix Suns (22) (4-7)
The biggest thing to happen to this Suns team so far this season? Finally getting a General Manager to run the team. Yeah, they're underperforming pretty badly right now, but they've got the pieces to turn things around. I mean, it's hard to even think about not seeing Tim Duncan in the post season. Once some structure gets put into place by the new guy running the show, I expect the Suns to make a big jump up the Power Rankings Ladder in the next couple of weeks. I mean...Nash, Pau, and Timmy D? Yeah, they'll be fine.
22) Orlando Magic (16) (3-8)
It's just too weird to say this...but the Kris Humphries led Magic are...still struggling. Mainly due to John Wall (36%), Ryan Anderson (33%), and Trevor Ariza (33%) not being able to find their shooting groove at all. Those shooting percentages are pretty bad for players that should be leading your team. I feel as if the Magic will be stuck in turmoil if things don't start turning around. Their only wins came against teams that are lower than them in the Rankings...which isn't something to be extremely proud of.
23) Sacramento Kings (28) (7-5)
This is another team that I feel should be playing better than they have been. They've got the pieces to challenge the other teams for the division title but with the lack of a GM running the team and an injury to a key starter in Wilson Chandler, it's put a bit of a damper on Sacramento's hopes...They were able to avenge a loss to the Trail Blazers but then allowed Durant to go off for 46 points the next game...not good.
24) Oklahoma City Thunder (27) (4-8)
This is a team I feel should be playing better basketball but they've just lost starting point guard, Tyreke Evans to a broken toe, so he'll be out for a little over a month now. They've got David West riding their bench, who I feel should be starting...Not on the Thunder but on a different team. If they could find a trade for West for a guard to start while Evans is out, I think it'd benefit the Thunder greatly. Currently on a 4 game losing streak, they'll look to bounce back against the Wolves tonight.
25) Memphis Grizzlies (29) (5-5)
The Grizzlies are slowly but surely developing as a team. You can see the improvement coming along after each game. Raw players in Favors, Barnes, Thomas, and Lamb are showing signs of their true potential and with the team on a 4 game winning streak right now, team morale is on the rise. With wins over the Jazz twice, the Mavericks, and Spurs, you can see it right there. I think come next season, this Grizzlies team will make the post season for sure...They can still make it this year but I'd be surprised.
26) Portland Trail Blazers (-) (3-9)
I definitely thought this team was going to be the worst in the league by far...but they aren't. During the week, they beat the Heat twice and edged out the Sacramento Kings in a close bout. This is another team that is super raw and likely wont see huge improvements for another 2 years. For me, I'm waiting on the emergence of Andre Drummand, once he gets going, he's going to be a defensive juggernaut in the paint.
27) Toronto Raptors (25) (3-7)
I have no idea what's going on with Chris Paul...or rather the entire team. I mean, I guess you're only as good as your star player is playing...and right now, that's not good at all. I had said the Raptors were going to make the post season during my last PRs, but not anymore. Unless they can come up with a blockbuster trade somewhere, the Raptors are in for a long looongg season. I think they need more for their front court...it's just too raw to compete right now.
28) Los Angeles Clippers (20) (2-8)
This team...I'm just not sure about. On paper, not bad at all. Put them together on the court and they look lost. Hibbert cooled down quite a bit from the last rankings but the rest...I don't quite know. Maybe it's the rawness of Rivers and Gee at the moment. Maybe once they start hitting their potentials a little bit, it'll start to show and the team will start playing better. Their two wins came against the Kings and the Rockets...and are currently on a 7 game losing streak...ouch.
29) Miami Heat (15) (1-10)
The injury bug really has it out for the Heat, as Leonard suffered a mild concussion that took him out for a couple of games. Their only win came against the only team they're ranked higher than, the Pacers. Other than that though, they've been getting utterly dominated in games, teams showing no mercy towards the Heat and letting loose on them. It's going to be a long and agonizing season for the Heat, but it'll pay off if they can land a top 3 pick in the draft though.
30) Indiana Pacers (-) (0-10)
I definitely did not expect this team to be the bottom dwellers of the league, but they are, and will continue to be with Curry out. They're also getting smacked around by the injury bug too. And teams, like the Heat, are showing no mercy on the Pacers. The closest they've come to winning a game, was when the played the Suns and the 76ers, as they only lost by 5 points. Other than that...the margin of victory for the other teams, just has got to be hurting team morale. Hopefully they land a top 3 pick in the draft as it'll be a race to the number 1 pick between Miami and Indiana.
The Celtics, Pelicans, and Warriors were the hot teams of the week thanks to James, Rose, and Iguodala.
LeBron James Credit//Derrick Rose Credit//Andre Iguodala Credit
Biggest Rise: Cleveland Cavaliers (+10), Houston Rockets (+7)
Free Falling: Miami Heat (-14), Los Angeles Clippers (-8)
Ranking) Team (Last Rank) (Week Record)
Free Falling: Miami Heat (-14), Los Angeles Clippers (-8)
Ranking) Team (Last Rank) (Week Record)
1) Boston Celtics (-) (10-1)
The Boston Celtics continue to run the league, thanks in huge part to LeBron James and Tyson Chandler. They've run through every single opponent they've gone against. They're only loss came against the Detroit Pistons on the road, but they proved that it was likely a fluke by smashing them days later in Boston with James scoring at will. The Celtics are the clear front runner and favorites to win it all this year despite starting PF Thomas Robinson going down for a couple of months. They'll manage.
2) New Orleans Pelicans (4) (8-1)
The Pelicans have continued to show their dominance so far, and have put their names securely in the talks for a title. With their only loss of the week coming against the Kings, they've managed to steamroll over victims like the Celtics have done. Despite Rose playing shooting guard for the Pelicans, he's still running the offense and making the plays, although Mike Conley Jr's assists have gone up since the last rankings were released. Gotta note Rose's 41 point spanking of the Thunder too.
3) Charlotte Hornets (-) (8-2)
The old men of the league continue to play very well, despite the starters playing large minutes (Granger and Dirk are top 10). The scoring has evened out pretty well between their big three of Bryant, Nowitzki, and Granger, with Kidd trying to make his way into the top 10 in assists. Their only losses of the week came against the team above them (by 6) and division rival, the Atlanta Hawks by just 2 points. The Hornets are proving to be a tough team to score on still, only allowing about 84 points to be scored.
4) Brooklyn Nets (2) (8-3)
The Nets are still trying to keep up with the Boston Celtics of the incredibly tough Atlantic Division. Durant is doing everything he can to narrow the gap between the two. The dude is a scoring machine, looking at their schedule, and you see nothing but Durant on the scoring leader for the game. He's insane. Their losses came against back to back losses against the Hawks and a very inconsistent Lakers squad. Those three crucial losses are likely a result of the Nets not having a true 2nd option, unless Parker can find his touch.
5) Golden State Warriors (10) (9-1)
The Warriors are a prime example of the term "defense wins", because they still don't have a player averaging over 20 a game yet they have the third best record in the league. In fact, I think the Warriors, will likely climb even higher up in the next rankings if they continue to play the way they have been. They have a chip on their shoulder, they weren't in discussions for the championship...they weren't even predicted to win their division, but they certainly are. They're a scary team to face, their only loss of the week was against Boston. If I'm a team in the West come playoff time...DO NOT WANT.
6) Philadelphia 76ers (11) (8-2)
It's easy to forget about the 76ers due to them playing in the Atlantic Division, but they are still a huge threat. And actually, are just .5 games behind the Nets. Dwyane Wade is showing that he can still lead a team to the promise land. A combination of defense and scoring, they've got the veteran players to help keep this team afloat in the tough Eastern Conference. Their two losses came against two teams in the top 5 in the Warriors and Hornets...both were close games too. Don't sleep on this team either.
7) Atlanta Hawks (8) (8-3)
Here is a team that's pretty underrated in my opinion. They've got their elite scorer in Melo and their scrappy defenders in the rest of the starting 5. With statement wins against the Hornets, Nets (back to back), and the rising Cavaliers, they got embarrassed by LeBron and the Celtics and blew a lead to the Bulls in Chicago. Still though, they are right there with the Hornets for the Southeast Division title, just a game behind them too. It's looking like it'll be a tight finish for the division title.
8) Chicago Bulls (9) (7-4)
They're still a fun team to watch, Kyrie Irving knows how to put on a show and wow the crowd. Yeah, he's struggling a bit on the scoring side, but as long as the Bulls are winning, I don't see a huge problem with that. I mean, sure, the Bulls would be in the talks of the elite teams in the league if Irving shot better (just barely 40%) but as long as they make the playoffs, they'll certainly give whoever they're up against, a run for their money. The season is still early for Irving and the Bulls, so we'll see what happens.
9) Cleveland Cavaliers (19) (7-3)
The Cavaliers, who made the biggest jump in these rankings this week, had a nice win streak going until they hit Brooklyn that led them to 3 straight losses after (Nets, Pistons, Hawks). The biggest surprise with this Cavs team though, is Irsan Ilyasova, and how he's elevated his game this season, currently leading the team in scoring with James Harden, Kemba Walker, and Luol Deng. Not only that, but his rebounding has been incredible too, not only leading the Cavs, but 5th in the league too. If Harden gets going and Ilyasova can keep this up...the Cavs may have something here...
10) Dallas Mavericks (5) (4-6)
It's looking like this could be a long season for the Mavericks. They haven't put any sort of streak together, win or lose. With Joe Johnson struggling on the offensive end of the court now...it's looking like the gamble might not have been worth it after all. If the Mavericks fail to make the post season, they'll be a young team stuck with two ugly contracts in Johnson and Amare...unless they can trade one of the two, or both for more youth or picks...but good luck trying to sell that. Unless you can sell a ketchup popsicle to a woman in white gloves...
11) Houston Rockets (18) (7-5)
The Rockets, despite their slightly above average week, made the list of the highest rises of the week...mainly due to other teams having a much worse week than them. It seems injuries has had to due with some of it too, but I still really like this team. I mean, if they can find a better shooting guard by trading either Dragic or Augustine (because let's face it, DJ isn't a two guard at all), I think they'd be much better off. Although...they are on a current 4 game winning streak, so maybe it's working for them. Hmmm...
12) Minnesota Timberwolves (6) (4-5)
A team that came back to reality a little bit. I knew that having Jamal Crawford as your starting point guard, wasn't a recipe for success. In my opinion, they are a point guard away from making a huge splash in the weaker Western Conference. Crawford is a 6th man, it's a known fact. He likes to come off the bench and score in bunches. Nate McMillan learned that the hard way back during the NBA 11-12 Trail Blazers season (his last season with the team). The Wolves need a PG...badly.
13) Utah Jazz (7) (4-8)
The Jazz have one of the most efficient players in the league in Rajon Rondo...but the only thing keeping Rondo's name out of serious MVP talks, is Utah's record. I mean, yeah, the dude pulled off an impressive feat of scoring two triple doubles in a row...but his first one came at a loss to the Cavs (18p, 20a, 10r on 7-20 shooting) and 5 point win against the Suns (18p, 11a, 11r). To me, an MVP leads his team to victory and into the post season...and the Jazz...are currently struggling (on a four game losing streak). They need a big man to protect the paint.
14) Los Angeles Lakers (-) (5-4)
Well, the Lakers are staying above .500 basketball, which is what I thought they would do with Bosh being out. He's still got a month to go on his recovery from a broken ankle, so if the Lakers can continue to stay at about .500 by the time he returns, they should have an easier time climbing back up the shallow Western Conference ladder. It's all thanks to Lawson and Bynum too. Their latest win was easily their most impressive, coming against one of the best in the league in Brooklyn, a true team effort at home for the Lakers.
15) Denver Nuggets (17) (6-5)
The Nuggets are currently riding a 4 game winning streak, with wins over the Spurs, Lakers, Bulls, and Clippers. Starting BDiddy at point and putting Linsanity at the two...seems to be paying off for them right now. Most impressive so far though, is the emergence of big Greg Monroe, leading the Nuggets in scoring and rebounding, he's making a case for the All-Star game, showing that he has what it takes to lead a team...And they could slip right into the post season too, thanks to being in the West.
16) Detroit Pistons (13) (4-6)
Deron Williams, is finally playing like Deron Williams...unfortunately, it's not producing wins for the team right now. They're on a three game losing skid at the moment, but they do have wins of the Cavaliers, the Lakers, and are the only team to hand Boston their first loss of the season. So maybe they'll come around as the season goes on and as DWill finds his groove. It'll be tough to make the playoffs in the East, but I could definitely see them making it as the 8th seed, only problem is they'd be matched up against Boston and King James.
17) New York Knicks (12) (4-7)
The Knicks have surprised me...but not in a good way. They have a team that, on paper, looks as if they should be producing some wins, but they aren't. Maybe a trade of some sort to help surround Dwight with a better scoring option as David Lee isn't producing what he should be. They need a player who can put up around 18-20 a game to go along with Dwight. I predicted that all of the Atlantic Division would make the post season...but it's looking like I was wrong wrong wrong.
18) Washington Wizards (23) (5-4)
The Wizards are another team that climbed the rankings due to other teams having much poorer weeks, as they are currently at .500 right now. After winning 5 games in a row, they are currently on a 4 game losing skid. Kevin Love and Brook Lopez are the two stars getting it done, but they need help, somewhere. Having Thabo and Avery in the starting lineup for their defense is hurting them on offense. It's starting to show as they've been pounded in their last 4 games.
19) San Antonio Spurs (24) (5-5)
John Henson continues to outshine Anthony Davis coming off the bench. Everyone in their starting lineup, with the exception of Oden, is under performing this season. Collison, Matthews, Parsons, and Davis, should be producing a better record than what they currently have. The season is still young and they have plenty of time to turn things around, but this is a time when they should try to take advantage of teams slipping in the West due to injuries. The anticipation of Davis hitting his potential, is driving everyone crazy...when when when?!!?
20) Milwaukee Bucks (21) (6-6)
This is another team, patiently waiting for their star player to hit their potential in Paul George. Once he does, I think the Bucks will be a dark horse team in the league. Sneaking by wins against some of the better teams in the league. They just need to find a better power forward to go along with Gortat, because Singleton isn't cutting it, at all. Gotta give them a little bit of credit though, they kept relatively close to Boston and Charlotte when they played them. So that's always a plus.
21) Phoenix Suns (22) (4-7)
The biggest thing to happen to this Suns team so far this season? Finally getting a General Manager to run the team. Yeah, they're underperforming pretty badly right now, but they've got the pieces to turn things around. I mean, it's hard to even think about not seeing Tim Duncan in the post season. Once some structure gets put into place by the new guy running the show, I expect the Suns to make a big jump up the Power Rankings Ladder in the next couple of weeks. I mean...Nash, Pau, and Timmy D? Yeah, they'll be fine.
22) Orlando Magic (16) (3-8)
It's just too weird to say this...but the Kris Humphries led Magic are...still struggling. Mainly due to John Wall (36%), Ryan Anderson (33%), and Trevor Ariza (33%) not being able to find their shooting groove at all. Those shooting percentages are pretty bad for players that should be leading your team. I feel as if the Magic will be stuck in turmoil if things don't start turning around. Their only wins came against teams that are lower than them in the Rankings...which isn't something to be extremely proud of.
23) Sacramento Kings (28) (7-5)
This is another team that I feel should be playing better than they have been. They've got the pieces to challenge the other teams for the division title but with the lack of a GM running the team and an injury to a key starter in Wilson Chandler, it's put a bit of a damper on Sacramento's hopes...They were able to avenge a loss to the Trail Blazers but then allowed Durant to go off for 46 points the next game...not good.
24) Oklahoma City Thunder (27) (4-8)
This is a team I feel should be playing better basketball but they've just lost starting point guard, Tyreke Evans to a broken toe, so he'll be out for a little over a month now. They've got David West riding their bench, who I feel should be starting...Not on the Thunder but on a different team. If they could find a trade for West for a guard to start while Evans is out, I think it'd benefit the Thunder greatly. Currently on a 4 game losing streak, they'll look to bounce back against the Wolves tonight.
25) Memphis Grizzlies (29) (5-5)
The Grizzlies are slowly but surely developing as a team. You can see the improvement coming along after each game. Raw players in Favors, Barnes, Thomas, and Lamb are showing signs of their true potential and with the team on a 4 game winning streak right now, team morale is on the rise. With wins over the Jazz twice, the Mavericks, and Spurs, you can see it right there. I think come next season, this Grizzlies team will make the post season for sure...They can still make it this year but I'd be surprised.
26) Portland Trail Blazers (-) (3-9)
I definitely thought this team was going to be the worst in the league by far...but they aren't. During the week, they beat the Heat twice and edged out the Sacramento Kings in a close bout. This is another team that is super raw and likely wont see huge improvements for another 2 years. For me, I'm waiting on the emergence of Andre Drummand, once he gets going, he's going to be a defensive juggernaut in the paint.
27) Toronto Raptors (25) (3-7)
I have no idea what's going on with Chris Paul...or rather the entire team. I mean, I guess you're only as good as your star player is playing...and right now, that's not good at all. I had said the Raptors were going to make the post season during my last PRs, but not anymore. Unless they can come up with a blockbuster trade somewhere, the Raptors are in for a long looongg season. I think they need more for their front court...it's just too raw to compete right now.
28) Los Angeles Clippers (20) (2-8)
This team...I'm just not sure about. On paper, not bad at all. Put them together on the court and they look lost. Hibbert cooled down quite a bit from the last rankings but the rest...I don't quite know. Maybe it's the rawness of Rivers and Gee at the moment. Maybe once they start hitting their potentials a little bit, it'll start to show and the team will start playing better. Their two wins came against the Kings and the Rockets...and are currently on a 7 game losing streak...ouch.
29) Miami Heat (15) (1-10)
The injury bug really has it out for the Heat, as Leonard suffered a mild concussion that took him out for a couple of games. Their only win came against the only team they're ranked higher than, the Pacers. Other than that though, they've been getting utterly dominated in games, teams showing no mercy towards the Heat and letting loose on them. It's going to be a long and agonizing season for the Heat, but it'll pay off if they can land a top 3 pick in the draft though.
30) Indiana Pacers (-) (0-10)
I definitely did not expect this team to be the bottom dwellers of the league, but they are, and will continue to be with Curry out. They're also getting smacked around by the injury bug too. And teams, like the Heat, are showing no mercy on the Pacers. The closest they've come to winning a game, was when the played the Suns and the 76ers, as they only lost by 5 points. Other than that...the margin of victory for the other teams, just has got to be hurting team morale. Hopefully they land a top 3 pick in the draft as it'll be a race to the number 1 pick between Miami and Indiana.