NBA Power Rankings

After a short hiatus the SportsTake edition of NBA Power Rankings is back in a big way. Due to a busy Christmas schedule and some big announcements that will be coming your way soon we have been unable to get out our NBA Power Rankings as often as we would like. But the wait is officially over and good for you because without our NBA Rankings how would you know who is good or not in the NBA.

1. Houston Rockets (25-4)

The Rockets are currently owners of the best record in the NBA. Not only do the Rockets own the best record in the league, but they are currently 14-0 with Chris Paul in the lineup. Houston has been the most impressive team in the NBA by far and appears to be the only real threat to the Golden State Warriors. James Harden should be the front runner for the MVP Award and unless Giannis Antetokounmpo can put together a ridiculous run, Harden should run away with the MVP.

2. Golden State Warriors (24-6)

Almost as impressive as Golden State’s 9-game win streak is that 5 of those wins have come without Steph Curry, who has missed time due to an ankle injury. Without Curry, Warriors All-Star Kevin Durant has seamlessly stepped into the role of Golden State’s leader, scoring nearly 34 points-per-game while also averaging 10.3 rebounds and 7.3 assists-per-game. Durant’s recent performances have fans questioning if Durant or Curry is more important to the Warrior’s success.

3. Cleveland Cavaliers (23-9)

Following last night’s loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, the Cavs are now 18-2 in their last 20 games and are now second in the Eastern Conference. Lebron James seems to have kicked it into high gear recently, tallying 4 triple-doubles in the last 6 games. While they have enjoyed success recently, the Cavaliers have begun searching for an additional piece to add the their already loaded roaster. Names like DeAndre Jordan and Paul George have been among players linked to the Cavs in recent days.

4. Boston Celtics (26-7)

The Boston Celtics are coming off of what is possibly the most exciting game of the season against the Indiana Pacers. Despite a win in Indiana, the Celtics have come back down to (the flat) earth following their 16-game win streak. Boston had an abysmal performance Friday night against the Utah Jazz, but have since rebounded with back-to-back road wins.

5. Toronto Raptors (20-8)

One of the most intriguing stories not being talked about in the NBA is the quiet success of the Toronto Raptors. Toronto has enjoyed offensive success thus far this season, averaging 110.9 points-per-game which is good for fourth in the NBA and are shooting over 50% from the field. Toronto is 9-1 in their past 10 games and look to keep their hot streak going with upcoming games against the Hornets, Sixers (twice) and Mavericks.