We are excited to present the NBA Power Rankings for the first time during the 2024-25 season here at The Athletic.
You may recall my work from memorable experiences such as the 213 LA Clippers era, the Epitome Game Series, being Justin Bieber’s teammate, and discussing The Reliability Tiers and Positionless is a Scam. This season, I will be your guide for the Power Rankings.
With Week 1 now complete, the Boston Celtics have emerged as the frontrunners, defending their championship. They stand out as different from other defending champions since they have kept almost their entire rotation intact, a rarity for teams attempting to repeat since the Golden State Warriors fell short of a three-peat in 2019. The Celtics managed to maintain a chip on their shoulder through the offseason, even as Jayson Tatum collected DNP-CDs during the Olympics, which did not feature Jaylen Brown.
This season is not solely about who poses a challenge to the Celtics; it also revolves around how the game unfolds. How are teams constructing their rosters? What is the appropriate number of 3-pointers, and what types of 3s should teams prioritize?
Throughout the season, we’ll have plenty to discuss. Each week will feature a theme in our Power Rankings that goes beyond a simple ranking of teams. We will implement a tier system, allowing teams to rise or fall within five distinct categories:
- Top Contenders – These five teams represent the pinnacle of the league.
- In a Good Place – This could include one team or up to seven teams.
- The Bubble – Not to be confused with Walt Disney World, this refers to the middle of the pack.
- Not the Tier to Fear – These teams are not performing the worst in the league, but they have significant improvements to make.
- Basement Floor – These teams are currently at the bottom.
What to expect from the Power Rankings:
- These rankings reflect my subjective opinions. While I will take various objective metrics into account, the final decisions rest with me.
- These rankings serve as more than just a retrospective of the previous week; they also incorporate future projections, striking a balance between the two.
- While subjective, these rankings are not biased. There are no underlying agendas, and we aim for a fair evaluation based on merit.
- Enjoy the games and the rankings!
In Week 1 of The Athletic NBA Power Rankings, we’ll delve into The Big Question for each team. Win-loss records reflect games played through Monday night, and other statistics are current as of Monday’s action for this week. (Last rankings are based on offseason Power Rankings from July 16 by leading Bounce chairman emeritus Zach Harper.):
Tier 1: Top Contenders
1. Boston Celtics (4-0)
Last ranking: 1
In the last week: W vs Knicks, W at Wizards, W vs Pistons, W vs Bucks
Offensive rating: 126.1 (first place)
Defensive rating: 111.2 (14th)
The Big Question: Is it merely 3-point shooting or nothing?
In their first four games, the Celtics are averaging 21.5 made 3-point shots on 50.0 attempts, which would set league records. Equally critical in determining their season’s success is their defensive performance against 3-point shooting. Only two teams have restricted opponents to fewer made 3s (10.0) than Boston, enabling the Celtics to counterbalance what is currently the lowest paint-scoring offense in the league.
GO DEEPER
Doc Rivers says championship unlocked Celtics. Derrick White, Al Horford agree
2. Oklahoma City Thunder (3-0)
Last ranking: 2
In the last week: W at Nuggets, W at Bulls, W vs Hawks
Offensive rating: 109.2 (17th)
Defensive rating: 90.8 (first)
The Big Question: How will they perform without Isaiah Hartenstein?
The Thunder faced a significant injury during the preseason. Center Isaiah Hartenstein, who was signed from the New York Knicks with a three-year contract, sustained a fracture in his left hand and is expected to miss time until late November. Last season, only the Charlotte Hornets and Washington Wizards had worse rebounding statistics than the Thunder, and now Oklahoma City is even lower in overall rebounding percentage, which has dropped from 48.4 percent to 47.2 percent, placing them 27th in the league. Despite this setback, the Thunder currently lead the league in forcing turnovers.
3. Dallas Mavericks (2-1)
Last ranking: 3
In the last week: W vs Spurs, L at Suns, W vs Jazz
Offensive rating: 109.9 (15th)
Defensive rating: 107.3 (fifth)
The Big Question: Will the defensive improvements from the late-season of 2023-24 sustain throughout the year?
In last season’s first 62 games, the Mavericks held a record of 34-28 while allowing an average of 117.3 points per 100 possessions, ranking 23rd in the NBA. However, they finished strong, going 16-4 in their last 20 games with a league-best defensive rating of 107.2 points per 100 possessions. Despite notable roster changes, Dallas has started the season with a commendable defensive performance.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves (2-1)
Last ranking: 4
In the last week: L at Lakers, W at Kings, W vs Raptors
Offensive rating: 112.2 (12th)
Defensive rating: 109.8 (11th)
The Big Question: How long will it take for Julius Randle to adjust?
Randle’s regular-season debut with the Timberwolves was quite unremarkable after he was traded alongside Donte DiVincenzo for Karl-Anthony Towns, managing just 16 points on 10 attempts against the Lakers. However, his performance improved against the Kings and Raptors, consistently contributing at least four assists in each of the three games played with the Timberwolves. Notably, Towns had only one instance last season of achieving four or more assists across three consecutive games.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers (4-0)
Last ranking: 15
In the last week: W at Raptors, W vs Pistons, W at Wizards, W at Knicks
Offensive rating: 122.3 (second)
Defensive rating: 106.0 (fourth)
The Big Question: Will this be the year Evan Mobley emerges as a star?
Mobley is now under the guidance of his second NBA head coach, Kenny Atkinson, who previously served as an assistant with the Warriors and LA Clippers, and played a key role in the Brooklyn Nets’ rebuild during the late 2010s. The Cavaliers retained their entire rotation and decided to part ways with head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. Mobley seems to be thriving early in the season, enhancing his 3-point and free-throw attempts while being a significant presence on defense. If he maintains his strong shooting percentages (51% from the field, 50% from 3 on 2.0 attempts per game, and 88.2% on free throws), he could earn his first All-Star selection.
Tier 2: In a Good Place
6. Phoenix Suns (3-1)
Last ranking: 12
In the last week: W at Clippers, L at Lakers, W vs Mavericks, W vs Lakers
Offensive rating: 111.5 (13th)
Defensive rating: 108.3 (sixth)
The Big Question: Have they resolved their point guard dilemma?
The Suns took a bold turn last season by appointing a defensive specialist, Frank Vogel, as head coach, opting to forgo traditional point guards. Instead, they allowed Devin Booker to take on the role of lead ballhandler alongside Bradley Beal and Kevin Durant. This approach functioned well, provided the Suns didn’t have to perform in crucial fourth quarters, where they struggled the most in the league. New head coach Mike Budenholzer now has Tyus Jones and Monte Morris managing the point, and their combined efforts have resulted in 32 assists against only four turnovers, while the Suns have started outscoring their opponents in the fourth quarter this season.
7. Los Angeles Lakers (3-1)
Last ranking: 16
In the last week: W vs Timberwolves, W vs Suns, W vs Kings, L at Suns
Offensive rating: 117.3 (fifth)
Defensive rating: 114.3 (20th)
The Big Question: How can the Lakers preserve the stamina of LeBron James and Anthony Davis?
The last time the Lakers began a season with a 3-0 record was in 2010, when Phil Jackson was at the helm as defending champions. New head coach JJ Redick has made a notable impact by managing James’ playing time, keeping it to an average of 34.7 minutes per game. Davis has emerged as an MVP candidate but is playing a hefty 37.1 minutes per game over the first four matches; he has never exceeded 36.4 minutes per game, a mark he set back in 2018 with the New Orleans Pelicans. Both players logged over 70 games last season, marking six-year highs in total minutes played, and they spent the summer competing for gold medals. Their ability to sustain performance levels, especially in light of their injury histories, will be critical to monitor, particularly since the Lakers are currently ranked last in bench points per game.
GO DEEPER
JJ Redick angry with himself after Lakers’ first loss. His players love the passion
8. Orlando Magic (3-1)
Last ranking: 11
In the last week: W at Heat, W vs Nets, L at Grizzlies, W vs Pacers
Offensive rating: 115.5 (seventh)
Defensive rating: 108.7 (eighth)
The Big Question: Can the offense improve?
Despite finishing as a bottom-five team in turnover percentage last season, the Magic made the playoffs comfortably while hitting the fewest 3-pointers in the league. This year, Orlando has started off strong in both aspects. Only three teams have averaged more 3-pointers per game, and the Magic currently sit at 16th in turnover percentage. Notably, Paolo Banchero’s performance has seen struggles with his 3-point shooting and turnovers, even as he came one assist short of a 50-point triple-double against the Pacers.
9. LA Clippers (2-1)
Last ranking: 17
In the last week: L vs Suns, W at Nuggets, W at Warriors
Offensive rating: 107.4 (24th)
Defensive rating: 103.2 (third)
The Big Question: When will Kawhi Leonard return to play?
With Paul George’s departure in free agency, Russell Westbrook traded, and Kawhi Leonard continuing to recover from knee surgery for the past seven months, the Clippers’ expectations are at their lowest in six years. The offense, led by James Harden, tends to be a grind, yet the team has enough talent and coaching to still compete effectively. They are just a few possessions away from being a surprising contender, but the main point of interest remains Leonard’s ongoing recovery process.
GO DEEPER
Ivica Zubac’s sudden offensive outburst is anchoring the Clippers
10. Golden State Warriors (2-1)
Last ranking: 13
In the last week: W at Trail Blazers, W at Jazz, L vs Clippers
Offensive rating: 117.4 (fourth)
Defensive rating: 95.9 (second)
The Big Question: Have they resolved their defensive issues?
A 12-man rotation can benefit team defense by alleviating the pressure on individual players to excel in oversized roles. Last year’s Warriors were ranked 15th defensively during Steve Kerr’s coaching tenure, aside from the challenging 2019-2020 campaign. New lineups, players, and philosophies have resulted in a resurgence in defensive performance. However, as guards Stephen Curry and De’Anthony Melton are expected to miss time with injuries at the start of Week 2, it remains to be seen if this defensive strength can endure.
GO DEEPER
Thompson: Stephen Curry’s injury presents the Warriors’ first significant test of their depth
Tier 3: The Bubble
11. Miami Heat (2-1)
Last ranking: 20
In the last week: L vs Magic, W at Hornets, W vs Pistons
Offensive rating: 108.9 (18th place)
Defensive rating: 109.6 (10th place)
The Big Question: How will Jimmy Butler tackle this regular season?
Since his arrival to the Heat in 2019, Butler has consistently been a formidable playoff contender, steering the franchise to six postseason wins as a lower seed. However, last year he couldn’t add to that tally due to a knee injury that kept him out of the playoffs, following a regular season in which the Heat found themselves in the Play-In Tournament for the second consecutive year. With a player option worth $52.4 million for the 2025 offseason and having just celebrated his 35th birthday last month, Butler’s performance will be pivotal in an increasingly competitive Eastern Conference.
Can Jimmy Butler excel in both the Regular Season and Playoffs? (Jim Rassol / Imagn Images)
12. New Orleans Pelicans (2-1)
Last ranking: 7
In the last week: W vs Bulls, W at Trail Blazers, L at Trail Blazers
Offensive rating: 107.8 (23rd)
Defensive rating: 110.4 (12th)
The Big Question: What is the identity of this team?
This month has been riddled with hiccups, reminiscent of the Pelicans’ performance resembling the Saints’ offensive line, which is notably adept at committing false-start penalties. A preseason game was canceled due to Hurricane Milton, leaving the Pelicans with only three chances to clarify their strategy. After losing center Jonas Valančiūnas to free agency, Daniel Theis found himself starting all preseason games due to various absences. Brandon Ingram remains with the team despite trade rumors, while Zion Williamson was sidelined for the season opener due to illness, and recent acquisition Dejounte Murray fractured his left hand, requiring surgery. Trey Murphy III received a contract extension but is starting another season on the injury list for the second consecutive year. New Orleans seems unlikely to have its top six players on the court together for the foreseeable future.
time, not until after Thanksgiving.
GO DEEPER
Lifeless loss to Blazers shows that Pelicans have a lot of work to do
13. New York Knicks (1-2)
Last ranking: 6
In the last week: L at Celtics, W vs Pacers, L vs Cavaliers
Offensive rating: 118.3 (third)
Defensive rating: 118.5 (29th)
The Big Question: Is this team too top-heavy?
To acquire Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks dealt six future first-round picks, parting ways with Donte DiVincenzo in the process. This strategy has provided New York with an impressive pool of talent while still keeping a good number of Villanova players on the roster. However, only one other player, shooting guard Miles McBride, appears capable of logging over 20 minutes per game. Although New York expects to welcome back injured big men Precious Achiuwa and Mitchell Robinson eventually, this raises further concerns: When has a Tom Thibodeau-led team managed to stay healthy and reach the postseason intact?
14. Denver Nuggets (1-2)
Last ranking: 5
In the last week: L vs Thunder, L vs Clippers, W at Toronto
Offensive rating: 102.9 (29th)
Defensive rating: 109.4 (ninth)
The Big Question: Where are the shooters?
The Nuggets finished at the bottom of the league in 3-point attempts last season, and the departure of starting shooting guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has made their situation even more precarious, with Christian Braun stepping into the starter role. Surprisingly, Denver did not bring in a viable shooter; the only additions who have attempted three-pointers this season are Dario Šarić (0-of-1) and Russell Westbrook (1-of-10).
GO DEEPER
Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray had a moment, but the Nuggets are still finding themselves
15. Milwaukee Bucks (1-3)
Last ranking: 9
In the last week: W at Sixers, L vs Bulls, L vs Nets, L at Celtics
Offensive rating: 111.2 (14th)
Defensive rating: 116.4 (26th)
The Big Question: Is this team too old to defend?
Last season, the only team with an older roster than the Bucks was the Clippers, and
The Clippers aimed to infuse some youth into their lineup this offseason. Meanwhile, the Bucks have emerged as the oldest team in the league, a fact that’s evident in their early-season performance, particularly on the defensive end. Players like Coby White, Cam Thomas, and Payton Pritchard have taken advantage of this vulnerability.
16. Philadelphia 76ers (1-2)
Last ranking: 8
In the last week: L vs Bucks, L at Raptors, W at Pacers
Offensive rating: 107.4 (24th)
Defensive rating: 113.5 (18th)
The Big Question: When will Joel Embiid return to the court?
We might as well consider adding Paul George to this discussion, as he sat out Week 1 due to a knee bone bruise. However, the primary concern remains Embiid, following a turbulent start to the 2024 season. The Sixers have not encountered the toughest defenses in the league, and Tyrese Maxey (34.9 percent shooting) is struggling to find easy scoring opportunities compared to the success he had in February and March when Embiid was sidelined.
How do Pascal Siakam and the Pacers follow up their Eastern Conference finals appearance? (Nathan Ray Seebeck / Imagn Images)
17. Indiana Pacers (1-3)
Last ranking: 10
In the last week: W at Pistons, L at Knicks, L vs Sixers, L at Magic
Offensive rating: 108.3 (21st)
Defensive rating: 115.8 (23rd)
The Big Question: Can they build on their Eastern Conference finals run?
Few anticipated the Pacers would defeat the Knicks in the second round last May, regardless of the injuries that plagued New York. Similar to Dallas, the Pacers acquired a power forward during the season (Pascal Siakam) and subsequently became more competitive defensively. The return of Bennedict Mathurin, after shoulder surgery cut his last season short, could strengthen an already solid bench. However, center Myles Turner has faced challenges on both ends of the court as the season commenced.
18. Houston Rockets (2-2)
Last ranking: 19
In the last week: L vs Hornets, W vs Grizzlies, L at Spurs, W at Spurs
Offensive rating: 113.5 (ninth)
Defensive rating: 108.6 (seventh)
The Big Question: Can the offense reach the next level?
In the previous season, head coach Ime Udoka, along with veterans Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, played a crucial role in making the inexperienced Rockets competitive on defense. Now, the focus must shift to their offensive performance. With Jalen Green and Alperen Şengün recently signing rookie-scale contract extensions, the young players are starting to get paid. The Rockets have too much potential and talent to find themselves in the bottom five for field goal percentage yet again.
19. Chicago Bulls (2-2)
Last ranking: 25
In the last week: L at Pelicans, W at Bucks, L vs Thunder, W at Grizzlies
Offensive rating: 106.4 (27th)
Defensive rating: 111.1 (13th)
The Big Question: Will they utilize the 3-point line?
Last season, after Zach LaVine underwent foot surgery in January, the Bulls gave up 255 more 3-pointers than they managed to make. The Lakers were the next closest team in this unfortunate statistic, allowing 201 more 3s than they made. The Bulls’ difficulties with math were evident last year. Thus far, only the Celtics and Warriors have attempted and made more 3-pointers than the Bulls, with Coby White and LaVine leading the way.
20. Sacramento Kings (1-2)
Last ranking: 14
In the last week: L vs Timberwolves, L at Lakers, W vs Trail Blazers
Offensive rating: 115.7 (sixth)
Defensive rating: 113.1 (16th)
The Big Question: How will this roster secure stops?
Mike Brown envisions the Kings as an elite offensive unit that can manage just enough defensive stops to make a difference. However, his challenge lies in the mix of key players: a small guard (De’Aaron Fox), a ball-dominant veteran wing (DeMar DeRozan), and a center (Domantas Sabonis) who struggles with rim protection at a high level. While Sacramento has carved out an offensive identity through its direct handoff strategy, significant improvements are needed for the Kings to hold up defensively.
GO DEEPER
Tuesday Takeaways: The Kings finally light the beam, and Jayson Tatum’s swagger returns
Tier 4: Not the Tier to Fear
21. Memphis Grizzlies (2-2)
Last ranking: 18
In the last week: W at Jazz, L at Rockets, W vs Magic, L vs Bulls
Offensive rating: 114.0 (eighth)
Defensive rating: 115.9 (24th)
The Big Question: Is Ja Morant’s return all this team requires?
Ja Morant only participated in nine games last season due to injury and suspension, and his return has fans looking back to the successful Grizzlies of 2022 and 2023, who climbed to the top of the Western Conference. However, the landscape has changed, and the Grizzlies are not as formidable as they once were. While having Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. on the court for a fair number of games should improve the Grizzlies’ offensive standing compared to last year’s struggles, the current roster lacks the wing size, frontline experience, and bench talent necessary to dominate. Furthermore, ongoing durability concerns complicate trust in the Grizzlies over a full season, as evidenced by Morant and Jackson already missing games this season.
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The Hawks’ Zaccharie Risacher runs into the Wizards’ Bub Carrington on Monday night. (Dale Zanine / Imagn Images)
22. Atlanta Hawks (2-2)
Last ranking: 22
In the last week: W vs Nets, W vs Hornets, L at Thunder, L vs Wizards
Offensive rating: 112.2 (11th)
Defensive rating: 116.9 (27th)
The Big Question: How can Zaccharie Risacher leave his imprint beside Trae Young?
No two No. 1 picks are identical. Over the past decade, each top selection has been either a ball-dominant player, a dominant big man, or sometimes both. Markelle Fultz might be a rare exception, though, it’s fair to say that imitating his rocky start is not advisable. Fultz began his career alongside another top pick, Ben Simmons, who occupied his position, in addition to a proven star, Embiid. In contrast, Risacher has the opportunity to commence his journey alongside Young, who has recently been unshackled from his previous partnership with Dejounte Murray. Young is now handling the ball more than all but one player in the league, Nikola Jokić. Notably, there is currently no rookie averaging double-digit points after the first week of the season, with Risacher scoring just 7.3 points on a shooting percentage of 30.3.
23. Brooklyn Nets (1-2)
Last ranking: 29
In the last week: L at Hawks, L at Magic, W vs Bucks
Offensive rating: 109.6 (16th)
Defensive rating: 111.9 (15th)
The Big Question: Why does Cam Thomas rarely pass the ball?
Eventually, all scorers must share the ball. Basketball is a team sport, and even the top scorers generally manage at least one assist per quarter. In the early season, Thomas ranks fifth in the NBA with an impressive average of 30.7 points per game. To locate the 20th leading scorer (Norman Powell), one has to dig down to find someone with fewer assists per game than Thomas’ 2.7. Moreover, the current composition of the Nets reinforces this reality; there is a limited selection of options. Thomas is an unabashed scorer, with even fewer players obstructing his ability to excel this season.
24. San Antonio Spurs (1-2)
Last ranking: 21
In the last week: L at Mavericks, L at Kings, W vs Warriors
Offensive rating: 110.2 (18th)
Defensive rating: 113.4 (23rd)
Last week: L at Mavericks, W vs Rockets, L vs Rockets
Offensive rating: 108.1 (22nd)
Defensive rating: 114.1 (19th)
The Big Question: How will Victor Wembanyama’s emergence unfold in Year 2?
Many anticipate that the reigning Rookie of the Year will have a commanding presence in his second NBA season. While Wembanyama excels defensively, he still has significant strides to make. He currently has a field goal percentage of only 42.9%, has missed 14 of his 18 three-point attempts, and has recorded more turnovers (11) than assists (seven) at the start of this season. Veteran point guard Chris Paul, who Wembanyama did not have at the beginning of his career, is now on the Spurs, but the team has struggled with Paul on the court; he has been unable to score effectively inside the three-point line.
GO DEEPER
Wemby, young Spurs step into professor Chris Paul’s classroom
25. Charlotte Hornets (1-2)
Last ranking: 28
In the last week: W at Rockets, L at Hawks, L vs Heat
Offensive rating: 113.1 (10th)
Defensive rating: 115.1 (21st)
The Big Question: What identity will Charles Lee establish?
Charles Lee, the new head coach of the Hornets, previously served as an assistant coach with two championship teams over the last five years. He was part of the Bucks staff under Mike Budenholzer in 2021 and worked with Joe Mazzulla’s Celtics last year. Consequently, Lee has implemented a strategy focused on three-point shooting, leading NBA teams in offensive rebounds. On the defensive end, center Nick Richards has made notable improvements as a rim protector. Although this roster faces many defensive challenges, Lee’s approach allows LaMelo Ball to have an impressive scoring volume.
Tier 5: Basement Floor
26. Toronto Raptors (1-3)
Last ranking: 23
In the last week: L vs Cavaliers, W vs Sixers, L at Timberwolves, L vs Nuggets
Offensive rating: 106.9 (26th)
Defensive rating: 115.6 (22nd)
The Big Question: What direction will they take in building around Scottie Barnes?
During the team’s media day, center Jakob Poeltl candidly expressed the expectations for this season: “It makes no sense for us to try to win every single game as much as we can and sacrifice development.” With that in mind, the Raptors exhibit the potential for an intriguing team. Barnes made it into last year’s All-Star Game, as promised by head coach Darko Rajaković, and received a new contract. Point guard Immanuel Quickley also secured a new deal, while small forward RJ Barrett has two more years on his contract following this season. Poeltl serves as a reliable centerpiece, and shooter Gradey Dick remains the most recent lottery pick for the team, given that they did not have one in June. This season should focus on determining who is worth keeping long-term.
27. Portland Trail Blazers (1-3)
Last ranking: 27
In the last week: L vs Warriors, L vs Pelicans, W vs Pelicans, L at Kings
Offensive rating: 106.2 (28th)
Defensive rating: 113.
3 (17th)
The Big Question: How will Scoot Henderson evolve?
The Trail Blazers are not your ordinary team with low expectations. Even with 2022 lottery selection Shaedon Sharpe on the sidelines once more, there are numerous players to satisfy on the offensive end. Anfernee Simons remains part of the roster, as does Jerami Grant, and Deandre Ayton is still expected to showcase his talents. Portland made a significant trade, exchanging a lottery pick to acquire Deni Avdija. Henderson, selected third overall in the 2023 draft, faced challenges during an underwhelming rookie season. While his explosive on-ball abilities are still evident, the abundance of potential scorers around him complicates matters, limiting his opportunities to gain the experience necessary to validate his draft position.
28. Washington Wizards (1-2)
Last ranking: 30
In the last week: L vs Celtics, L vs Cavaliers, W at Hawks
Offensive rating: 108.7 (20th)
Defensive rating: 119.0 (30th)
The Big Question: What is the best approach to set up Alex Sarr for success?
Sarr’s summer league performance left much to be desired, prompting concerns about his readiness to assume the center position at this stage in his NBA career. Head coach Brian Keefe has primarily utilized Sarr as a center, although he has also taken the court alongside veteran Jonas Valančiūnas, starting one of his three games in that role. In the 20 minutes that Sarr and Valančiūnas have played together, the Wizards have endured a substantial setback, being outscored 62-37. This situation is akin to trailing by 50 points with eight minutes remaining in a game. Like Risacher, Sarr has found scoring a challenge in the early season, averaging just 7.0 points with a field goal percentage of 28.6. Unlike Risacher, Sarr is part of a team that does not seem poised to aim for many wins this season, especially with the 2025 draft poised to offer Washington the chance to secure another high-caliber prospect.
29. Utah Jazz (0-3)
Last ranking: 24
In the last week: L vs Grizzlies, L vs Warriors, L at Mavericks
Offensive rating: 101.0 (30th)
Defensive rating: 117.9 (28th)
The Big Question: Who can support Lauri Markkanen?
First and foremost, we wish Taylor Hendricks a swift recovery from his leg injury. The Utah Jazz are now the last team in the Western Conference yet to notch a victory, and each subsequent game has proven more challenging than the last. Markkanen is under contract until 2029, yet he has witnessed the departure of veterans like Mike Conley and Kelly Olynyk since his arrival. This season, it could be Jordan Clarkson who is ultimately traded, as he is the only rotation player over the age of 30.
30. Detroit Pistons (0-4)
Last ranking: 26
In the last week: L vs Pacers, L at Cavaliers, L vs Celtics, L at Heat
Offensive rating: 108.7 (19th)
Defensive rating: 116.2 (25th)
The Big Question: At some point, Cade Cunningham’s performance has to improve, right?
I wanted to acknowledge the Pistons in some way. Detroit began the season facing four playoff-caliber teams, and they managed to keep all those games within a twelve-point margin. Yet, they find themselves as the last team in the Eastern Conference to secure a win. Cunningham’s experience in Detroit has been riddled with challenges, but the Pistons have never had a start of 0-5 during his tenure. New head coach J.B. Bickerstaff has chosen to surround Cunningham with playmaking (Jaden Ivey), shooting (Tim Hardaway Jr.), scoring (Tobias Harris), and size (Jalen Duren) within the starting lineup, mixing veterans with young lottery picks that align with Cunningham’s timeline. While Cunningham is taking on a larger role, it has also led to increased turnovers, placing him alongside Harden and Young in that regard. Currently, the Pistons are primarily positioned to excel at rebounding on the defensive end.
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(Featured image of Jayson Tatum: Scott Taetsch / Getty Images)
2024-25 NBA Power Rankings: Early Season Insights and The Big Questions for Every Team
Understanding the 2024-25 NBA Landscape
The 2024-25 NBA season is underway, and with it comes the excitement of fresh narratives, emerging talent, and fierce competition. Early season power rankings provide a glimpse into how teams are performing and what we can expect as the season progresses. As we dive into the NBA power rankings, we’ll explore key insights and address the big questions facing each franchise.
Power Rankings Overview
| Rank | Team | Record | Key Question |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Milwaukee Bucks | 5-1 | Can Giannis and Dame gel together? |
| 2 | Denver Nuggets | 4-2 | Will Murray return to All-Star form? |
| 3 | Boston Celtics | 5-2 | Is this the year Tatum takes the leap? |
| 4 | Golden State Warriors | 4-3 | Can aging stars maintain their elite play? |
| 5 | Miami Heat | 3-3 | Will they be able to secure a top seed? |
Team Insights and Big Questions
1. Milwaukee Bucks
Record: 5-1
The Bucks have made headlines this season with the addition of Damian Lillard alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. The primary question is, can they develop chemistry quickly? Early signs suggest a promising partnership, but only time will tell if they can reach their full potential as a duo.
2. Denver Nuggets
Record: 4-2
As the defending champions, the Nuggets are looking to maintain their dominance. A key question looms: will Jamal Murray return to his All-Star form? His performance is crucial for Denver’s title defense, and fans are eager to see if he can elevate his game as the season progresses.
3. Boston Celtics
Record: 5-2
The Celtics are loaded with talent, and Jayson Tatum is poised for a breakout season. The big question for Boston is: is this the year he takes the leap into superstardom? The combination of Tatum and Jaylen Brown could make Boston a formidable force in the Eastern Conference.
4. Golden State Warriors
Record: 4-3
With aging stars like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, the Warriors face an uphill battle. The crucial question for them is: can they maintain their elite play? The team’s depth and experience will be tested as they navigate the grueling season ahead.
5. Miami Heat
Record: 3-3
The Heat are known for their resilience, but consistency is key. The main question is: will they be able to secure a top seed this season? With key players like Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo leading the charge, Miami aims to remain competitive in a tough Eastern Conference.
Key Trends to Watch This Season
- Increased Player Movement: The off-season saw significant trades and signings, reshaping rosters dramatically.
- Emerging Young Talents: Players like Victor Wembanyama are making headlines as they adapt to the NBA.
- Rising Competitive Balance: More teams are in contention, making each game crucial for playoff positioning.
Case Studies: Teams on the Rise
Philadelphia 76ers
Record: 4-3
The 76ers have been a focal point due to their ongoing saga with Joel Embiid’s health and potential trade rumors around James Harden. The question remains: can they keep their core intact and still compete? The addition of young talent may provide the boost they need.
Los Angeles Lakers
Record: 3-4
The Lakers are balancing veteran experience with youth. Can LeBron James and Anthony Davis stay healthy? This question will determine their success moving forward, especially with a competitive Western Conference.
Practical Tips for Following the Season
- Stay Updated: Follow NBA news outlets for real-time updates on team standings and player performances.
- Engage with Fantasy Basketball: Use power rankings to inform your fantasy drafts and trades.
- Watch Key Matchups: Circle games featuring top-ranked teams to see how they match up against each other.
First-Hand Experience: Engaging with the NBA Community
Joining online forums and social media groups dedicated to NBA discussions can enhance your understanding of the game. Engaging with fans allows you to hear different perspectives on team strategies and player performances, making watching the games even more enjoyable.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
As the 2024-25 NBA season unfolds, the power rankings will evolve, reflecting team performances and player developments. Keep an eye on the storyline for every team as they strive for success on the court. The questions posed will be answered over time, shaping the narrative of this thrilling season.
