NBA Power Rankings: Bucks Bounce Back, Rockets Rise in the West
The 2024 NBA Cup group stage wrapped up on Tuesday, and the stage is now set for the knockout rounds, which kick off next week. Soon, one team will hoist the trophy as the second-ever in-season tournament champion, following in the footsteps of last year’s winners, the Los Angeles Lakers.
But while the NBA Cup has added a new layer of excitement, the regular season marches on. Teams are battling to close out 2024 on a high note, with their eyes firmly set on the postseason as the New Year approaches. Let’s dive into the latest power rankings and see who’s rising, who’s falling, and who’s making waves across the league.
Western Conference: Defense Dominates
In the West, it’s all about defense. The Houston Rockets have climbed to second place in the conference standings, trailing only the Oklahoma City Thunder. These two teams boast the league’s top defenses, with the Thunder holding the No. 1 spot and the Rockets right behind at No. 2. Houston’s defensive intensity has been a game-changer under coach Ime Udoka, and they’re not showing any signs of slowing down.
Eastern Conference: A Tight Race at the Top
Over in the East, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics are locked in a fierce battle for the No. 1 seed. The two teams are separated by just one game, with a combined six-game lead over the third-place Orlando Magic. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks have found their groove after a rocky start, rattling off seven straight wins to kick off the holiday season.
Top 5 Teams in the Power Rankings
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Boston Celtics (17-4)
- Previous ranking: 2
- Next games: vs. DET (Dec. 4), vs. MIL (Dec. 6), vs. MEM (Dec. 7)
Kristaps Porzingis has been a revelation for Boston, averaging 19 points on 50% shooting while providing elite rim protection. His ability to stretch the floor has added another dimension to a team already firing from deep. The Celtics are launching over 50 three-pointers per game, and Porzingis’ return from offseason surgery has been seamless. — Tim Bontemps
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Cleveland Cavaliers (19-3)
- Previous ranking: 1
- Next games: vs. DEN (Dec. 5), @ CHA (Dec. 7), @ MIA (Dec. 8)
The Cavs bounced back from two losses to the Hawks with a statement win over the Celtics, outscoring Boston 43-27 in the fourth quarter. Cleveland’s ability to hit threes efficiently—matching Boston’s 17 triples on 13 fewer attempts—was key to their victory. — Dave McMenamin
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Oklahoma City Thunder (16-5)
- Previous ranking: 3
- Next games: @ TOR (Dec. 5), @ NO (Dec. 7)
Jalen Williams is making a strong case for his first All-Star selection, averaging 21.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 2.1 steals, and 1.0 block per game. His production puts him in elite company, with only Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen achieving similar numbers for an entire season. — Tim MacMahon
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Houston Rockets (15-7)
- Previous ranking: 5
- Next games: @ GS (Dec. 5), @ LAC (Dec. 8)
The Rockets are riding a three-game win streak, including a signature victory over the Thunder. Their defensive intensity has been a hallmark of their success, and coach Ime Udoka is focused on building habits that will carry them through the playoffs. — Michael Wright
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Memphis Grizzlies (14-8)
- Previous ranking: 8
- Next games: vs. SAC (Dec. 5), @ BOS (Dec. 7), @ WAS (Dec. 8)
Despite injuries to key players like Ja Morant and Desmond Bane, the Grizzlies have leaned on their depth to win six of their last seven games. Eight players are averaging double figures in scoring, showcasing the team’s balance and versatility. — Wright
Other Notable Teams
The Orlando Magic (15-8) continue to impress, with two six-game win streaks sandwiching their only loss since early November. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks (11-9) have rebounded from a 2-8 start, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance in the paint. On the flip side, the Washington Wizards (2-17) are in freefall, losing 15 straight games and sitting at the bottom of the standings.
As the NBA Cup knockout rounds approach and the regular season heats up, the league’s landscape is as dynamic as ever. Stay tuned for more drama, surprises, and standout performances as teams battle for supremacy.
Originally Written by: Tim Bontemps
