Here are the top 8 teams in the NBA right now!
1. Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland had their first matchup with Oklahoma City a week ago and capped off a 129-122 victory for their 11th straight win. After, they upped their win streak to 12 games before falling to Indiana on Sunday. Cleveland has shown no signs of slowing down, and they get their second and final game against Oklahoma City on Thursday.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder
Last week saw a tough loss at the hands of Cleveland, but are set to meet for the final time on Thursday. Chet Holmgren missed last week’s game, but his return will give Oklahoma City a much-needed boost.
3. Boston Celtics
Boston continues to win, but there is concern about opponents outproducing them from the arc. They need to tighten up their defense and prevent opponents from seeing uncontested three-pointers. Boston is a top team and will be gunning for another NBA Finals appearance.
4. Houston Rockets
Winning the possession battle and limiting turnovers will always lead to victories. Houston has done both well of late and continues their hot run. This week features tough matchups against Memphis, Denver, and Sacramento, ending the week against Portland. Houston’s defense will need to show up greatly during their first three games.
5. Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis continues to outproduce opponents in the first half of games. They’ve shown recent struggles winning close games but pulled off a 127-125 victory against Minnesota on Saturday. Memphis will need to be at their best this week, with one game against Houston and two against San Antonio.
6. New York Knicks
New York hit an offensive rough patch of late but still rank as one of the NBA’s best offensively and defensively. Look for New York to get back on track this week with games against Detroit, Philadelphia, and Minnesota.
7. Denver Nuggets
Denver continues to rise in the rankings thanks to their improved defense. This was the tweak Denver needed after a mediocre start to the season. The healthy Nuggets are ready to continue their ascent, leaving the rest of the league on notice.
8. Indiana Pacers
Indiana enters Week 13 as one of the hottest teams in the NBA. Winners of seven of their last 10 games, Indiana will enter a tough matchup with Cleveland, followed by games against Detroit and Philadelphia.