The elite teams in the NBA are clear to anyone who watches. But where they rank amongst themselves is a different question. Here are the top 7 right now:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers
A perfect 4-0 last week, Cleveland continues their torrid pace. Posting the second-best point differential (+11.8), the Cavaliers’ winning ways have them just ahead of Oklahoma City for the top spot. Wednesday’s matchup against Oklahoma City will be a must-watch game.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City finished last week’s schedule unblemished, winning four of four games. They continue to be not only the top team in the Western Conference but one of the top teams in the NBA.
3. Boston Celtics
Through their first three games last week, Boston seemed to rebound after dropping four of their previous six games. Sunday’s contest against Oklahoma City gave them all they could handle, losing by 13. The front office saw how they size up against the darling of the Western Conference, and they know they have adjustments to make along the way.
4. New York Knicks
New York extended their winning streak to nine games before dropping back-to-back games Friday and Saturday. One of the best offensively and defensively, New York has two winnable games early this week against Orlando and Toronto. However, Friday and Sunday feature tough matchups against Oklahoma City and a rising Milwaukee squad.
5. Houston Rockets
Houston’s grit has them continuing to play well, but will their hardnosed demeanor take its toll as the season progresses? Last week, they posted wins against Dallas and Los Angeles while dropping Friday’s game against Boston. They will be one of the toughest teams in the Western Conference come playoff time.
6. Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis has a knack for beating bad teams, but they surrender a high opposing field goal percentage. Games that see opponents shoot well have had Memphis in too many close games. This week features matchups against Dallas, Houston, and Minnesota. Memphis will undoubtedly need to play their best overall basketball to continue their winning ways.
7. Dallas Mavericks
Dallas is coming off a rough week, losing three straight by four possessions or less. Luka Doncic remains out, and it will be rough sailing until their best player returns. This week’s schedule doesn’t get easier with contests against Memphis, Los Angeles Lakers, Portland, and Denver.
