NBA Power Rankings: Lessons Learned One Month Into the Season
We’re just over a month into the 2024-25 NBA season, and the action is already heating up. With the NBA Cup group phase past its halfway mark, teams are now facing knockout round clinching scenarios. The stakes are high, and every game matters as we dive into this week’s power rankings.
Some teams are thriving in group play, while others are keeping their eyes on the bigger picture of the regular season. Regardless of their approach, the early season has provided plenty of insights into what’s working, what’s not, and what lies ahead for all 30 teams. Let’s break it all down.
Top of the East: Cleveland Cavaliers Are Rolling
The Cleveland Cavaliers are making a statement in the Eastern Conference. With a 17-1 record, they’ve had one of the best starts in franchise history. Their only loss? A hard-fought game against their biggest rival, the Boston Celtics. Cleveland’s dominance is no fluke. With only two players in their rotation over the age of 30—Caris LeVert and Georges Niang—and a new coach in Kenny Atkinson, the Cavs are proving Donovan Mitchell’s preseason claim that they’re “championship contenders when healthy” to be spot on.
Golden State Warriors: Championship Form, But Not Without Flaws
Out West, the Golden State Warriors are looking like contenders again. They’re chasing the Oklahoma City Thunder, who currently lead a stacked Western Conference. However, the Warriors have shown some cracks, blowing significant leads in back-to-back losses to the Spurs and Nets. With a grueling schedule ahead, including matchups against Oklahoma City, Phoenix, and Denver, Golden State will need to tighten up if they want to stay near the top.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Size Matters
The Thunder have learned the importance of size in the NBA. After a strong playoff run last season, they prioritized adding 7-footer Isaiah Hartenstein in the offseason. His impact was immediate, with a 13-point, 14-rebound, 4-block performance in his debut. Despite some early-season injuries, Oklahoma City remains a force in the West.
Boston Celtics: 3-Point Dominance
The Boston Celtics are proving once again that their 3-point shooting is nearly unstoppable. When they shoot over 40% from beyond the arc, they’re an incredible 44-1 since the start of last season. Even when their shooting dips below 35%, they’re still a respectable 20-14. With Kristaps Porzingis healthy, Boston’s two-way versatility makes them a nightmare matchup for any team.
Houston Rockets: Defense Wins Games
Under coach Ime Udoka, the Houston Rockets have embraced a defense-first mentality. Veterans Dillon Brooks and Fred VanVleet have set the tone, helping Houston rank No. 2 in defensive efficiency. Their young core, including Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr., has bought into the system, making the Rockets a tough out.
Denver Nuggets: Searching for Hunger
The reigning champs, the Denver Nuggets, haven’t looked as sharp this season. Despite having Nikola Jokic, arguably the best player in the world, Denver has struggled with consistency. Coach Michael Malone has called for more vocal leadership from his stars, and the team will need to rediscover the hunger that fueled their title run.
Key Takeaways from the Rest of the League
- Los Angeles Lakers: Transition defense remains a glaring issue, as they allow a league-worst 19.3 fast-break points per game.
- Memphis Grizzlies: Injuries have opened opportunities for players like Scotty Pippen Jr., who recently dropped a career-high 30 points.
- Orlando Magic: Franz Wagner has stepped up as a go-to scorer in Paolo Banchero’s absence.
- Philadelphia 76ers: Injuries have derailed their season, with their big three playing just six minutes together so far.
As the season progresses, teams will continue to adapt, learn, and fight for position. Whether it’s the Cavaliers’ dominance, the Warriors’ resilience, or the Thunder’s size advantage, the NBA is delivering drama and excitement every night. Stay tuned as the race for the NBA Cup and playoff positioning heats up!
Originally Written by: Dave McMenamin
