With two weeks down, the start of the second annual NBA Cup is only four days away.
So far in this early NBA season, here is what has transpired. Are we turning back the clock to the mid-2010s, when the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers ruled the NBA? Both teams have a combined record of 16-1 and face off on Friday, November 8. The Philadelphia 76ers, the team with the flashiest offseason has gotten off to a horrible start decimated by injuries. The good news is Paul George has made his debut and Joel Embid is expected to make his debut next week. The Los Angeles Lakers, after a 3-0 start have come back down to Earth and are 4-4 of the season. Let’s not forget the Western Conference somehow gets deeper every year.
With many storylines for each team both on the court and off the court, let’s dive right into it!
Risers: Rockets +7, Hawks +8, Nets +6, Pistons +6
Fallers: 76ers -12, Lakers -8, Bulls -7, Magic -7
Next Week: November 15
1. Cleveland Cavaliers 9-0(3) +2
OFF: 122.6(1st) DEF: 110.1(9th) NET:+12.6 (3rd)
They are the only undefeated team remaining. Until they lose, this spot belongs to them. Maybe LeBron is looking to find a way to return home to Cleveland a third time? On a more serious note, Kenny Atkinson became the record holder for most consecutive wins to start a season with a new franchise. Could this team be a legit title contender? Maybe. Friday’s matchup against Golden State could be the feeling of another Warriors-Cavs finals matchup. That would be something!
Week Schedule: vs. Warriors (Nov.8) vs. Nets(Nov. 9) @ Bulls (Nov.11) @ 76ers (Nov.13)
2. Oklahoma City Thunder 7-1 (2) –
OFF: 111.0(21st) DEF:96.5(1st) NET: +15.0 (2nd)
If Oklahoma City’s defense was a stock, investing fully in their defense would be wise. This team defends and they are a group of pests. The Thunder lead the NBA in steals, 1st in opponent turnovers, and 2nd in points off turnovers. Let’s not forget they are the only NBA with a defensive efficiency under 100. It took a near 20-20-20 triple-double from Jokic and a resurgent performance from Russell Westbrook for the Nuggets to hand OKC their first loss.
Week Schedule: vs. Rockets (Nov.8) vs. Warriors (Nov.10) vs. Clippers (Nov.11) vs. Pelicans (Nov.13)
3. Golden State Warriors 7-1 (5) +2
OFF: 119.3(3rd) DEF: 103.8(2nd) NET: +15.8 (1st)
Are we seeing a glimpse of what 2015 was like? Back then the Warriors were the most dominant team in the NBA that thrived on defense, depth, lethal 3-point shooting, and ball movement. Golden State ranks top 3 in both offensive and defensive efficiency, rank #1 in total bench points, and #4 in 3-point %. Buddy Hield currently is looking like the best signing of the offseason and a 6th man of the Year candidate. If you weren’t buying into them contending because of their weak schedule, their victory in Boston can prove otherwise. This upcoming week’s schedule should be a good test to determine if they are real contenders or not including a matchup where Klay Thompson plays against his former team for the first time.
Week Schedule: @ Cavaliers (Nov.8) @ Thunder (Nov.10) vs. Mavericks (Nov.14)
4. Boston Celtics 7-2 (1) -3
OFF: 121.3(3rd) DEF:109.3 (7th) NET:+11.7(4th)
It wasn’t a bad week for the Celtics. They managed to take care of business against teams that were much weaker and beat them all by double digits. However, Jaylen Brown has missed time since the game against Charlotte and the Celtics lost a nationally televised game against the Warriors. In that game, Golden State outscored Boston 32-16 and Boston has a -0.6 net rating in 2nd quarters this season. Nevertheless, Neemias Queta has been a productive week, averaging 10 points and 6 boards on 64% shooting while starting.
Week Schedule: vs. Nets (Nov.8) @ Bucks (Nov.10) vs. Hawks (Nov.12) @ Nets (Nov.13)
5. Phoenix Suns 6-1 (4) -1
OFF: 112.9 (14th) DEF:109.5(8th) NET:+3.6 (10th)
Despite some close wins against some meh teams, Phoenix still had an undefeated week. And that Kevin Durant guy. He is truly special averaging nearly 28 points on a insane 55% shooting at 36 years old. The Suns will have a bigger test next week with 3 of their 4 games on the road against playoff contenders and Bradley Beal is currently probable with a right elbow sprain.
Week Schedule: @ Mavericks (Nov.8), vs. Kings (Nov.10) @ Jazz(Nov.12) @ Kings (Nov.13)
6. Dallas Mavericks 5-3 (6) –
OFF: 112.4 (15th) DEF: 107.2(3rd) NET: +5.4 (7th)
It wasn’t an eventful week for the Mavericks. Dallas easily won against teams that they were expected to and had a close loss to the Pacers. Their most anticipated matchup will be next against when Klay Thompson will go up against his former team in the Bay Area. That will be a must-see TV and a big game for Dallas. Luka Doncic has put up his typical numbers at 28.6 points 8 rebounds and an assist. However, his shooting percentage of 40% is so far the lowest in his entire career.
Week Schedule: vs. Suns (Nov.8) @ Nuggets (Nov.10) @ Warriors (Nov.12) @ Jazz(Nov.14)
7. Denver Nuggets 5-3 (10) +3
OFF:114.4(10th) DEF: 112.9(16th) NET:+1.7(12th)
Ever since Michael Porter Jr. said the team might have to “break up” if they didn’t win, the Nuggets responded by racking up three straight wins, including a two-point victory over the Thunder, which gave them their first loss. A key takeaway from this week was Russell Westbrook who had a strong week as becoming starter averaging 25 points on 60% shooting. The Nuggets appear to be finding their stride. But that bench is still struggling as they are 27th in points and dead last in field goal percentage.
Week Schedule: vs. Heat (Nov.8) vs. Mavericks (Nov. 8)
8. Minnesota Timberwolves 5-3 (9) +1
OFF: 117.0(6th) DEF: 112.8(15th) NET:+3.7 (9th)
Friday’s win against the Nuggets was satisfying and entertaining as it appears the Wolves still have Denver’s number from last season’s playoff series. Nevertheless, the Wolves’ defense has taken a step back from last season as they are now outside the top 10 in defensive efficiency compared to #1 last year. Also, the Wolves were a solid team in rebounding last year and are currently ranked 29th in total rebounds. At least, Julius Randle has looked solid so far.
Week Schedule: vs. Blazers (Nov.8) vs. Heat (Nov.10) @ Blazers (Nov.12) @ Blazers (Nov.13)
9. Houston Rockets 5-3 (16) +7
OFF: 115.5(8th) DEF:108.0(4th) NET: +7.0(5th)
If the Rockets didn’t face a red-hot Warriors team, they probably would have been undefeated, and they nearly beat them on a rally. This team is not bad offensively as they have a lot of guys who can score and are deep. The Rockets are a team that scores well off their defense as they are 4th in points off turnovers. Houston is also ranked top 5 in defensive efficiency. All Houston needs a consistent go to scorer and this team could rise fast in the West.
Week Schedule: @ Thunder (Nov.8) @ Pistons (Nov.10) vs. Wizards (Nov.11) vs. Clippers (Nov.13)
10. Sacramento Kings 5-3 (11) +1
OFF:117.4(5th) DEF:111.5(11th) NET: +5.7(7th)
The Kings have had a solid week so far and their offensive numbers are heading in the right direction. Both total points and efficiency are in the top 5, it is starting to feel like 2023 when the Kings were lighting up the NBA with their lightning-bolt, fast-paced offense. DeMar DeRozan has looked solid so far by averaging 25.6 points a game. However, the Kings appear to be figuring out how to run the offense in crunch time. Sacramento is currently 1-3 when the game is decided by 5 points or less. Hopefully, that will be improved.
Week Schedule: vs. Clippers (Nov.8) @ Suns (Nov.10) @ Spurs (Nov.11) vs. Suns (Nov.13)
11. Indiana Pacers 4-4 (12) +1
OFF: 114.2 (12th) DEF:117.4 (23rd) NET:-2.1(16th)
After a poor couple of weeks, it looks like Tyrese Halliburton is slowly returning to All-Star form. In their top win of the week against Halliburton put up a 25-point and 12-assist night. Their bench though has been one of their top strengths as they are currently ranked #2 in bench points. One big takeaway from a breakout game from Ben Shepard who had a career-high 20 points off the bench in a loss to the Pelicans.
Week Schedule: @ Hornets (Nov.8) vs. Knicks (Nov.10) @ Magic (Nov.13)
12. Memphis Grizzlies 5-4 (13) +1
OFF: 115.7(7th) DEF:112.8 (14th) NET: +3.8 (8th)
Looking at Zach Edey’s 25-point 12 rebound performance vs. the Nets has been a sign of promise and relief for the Grizzlies especially for a team looking to get back into the postseason. Ja Morant’s quote about how he “hates the Lakers” resulted in a blowout win against the Lakers a team that embarrassed them in the playoffs just 18 months ago. Luckily, despite the injuries, Memphis will get another chance at them along with two easier games.
Week Schedule: vs. Wizards (Nov.8) @ Blazers (Nov.10) @ Lakers (Nov.12)
13. Los Angeles Clippers 4-4 (17) +4
OFF: 110.8(22nd) DEF: 108.8(5th) NET: +1.3 (13th)
The Clippers have finally won in their new arena and are once again relevant by embracing the underdog mentality. Their defense has been an anchor as the Clippers are currently 5th in defense efficiency, 3rd in opponent second chance points, and 4th in total points given up. The Clippers were able to hold Paul George and the 76ers to under 30% 3-point shooting which was the highlight win of the week. The only downside for the Clippers is they rank 29th in turnovers.
Week Schedule: @ Kings (Nov.8) vs. Raptors (Nov. 9) @ Thunder (Nov. 11) @ Rockets (Nov.13)
14. New York Knicks 3-4 (8) -6
OFF: 118.5 (4th) DEF:115.2 (20th) NET: +2.6 (11th)
My prediction earlier in my Opening Day Power Rankings is proving to be true. The Knicks as of this week are dead last in total bench points. In fact, in their loss to the Houston Rockets, the entire Knicks bench scored 3 points. No joke. It makes sense for a Tom Thibodeau-coached team that relies heavily on starters and a small rotation. Their defense has been a letdown so far as New York is currently ranked 20th in defensive efficiency compared to 10th last season.
Week Schedule: vs. Bucks (Nov.8) @ Pacers (Nov.10) @ 76ers (Nov.12) vs. Bulls (Nov.13)
15. Los Angeles Lakers 4-4 (7) -8
OFF:114.0(9th) DEF:118.8 (28th) NET: -4.1 (21st)
Hate to break it to my fellow Lakers fans. Their current record at .500 is a stronger representation of what kind of team they will be this season. A team that is average but could have moments of greatness and could perhaps make a deep playoff run depending on matchups. After their 1-4 road trip, the Lakers have two very noticeable flaws. They are currently ranked 28th in defensive efficiency and 29th in bench points. When Anthony Davis missed the game against Memphis it showed how thin the Lakers’ depth is outside of him and LeBron James. Time to lower expectations Laker fans.
Week Schedule: vs. 76ers (Nov 8.), vs. Raptors (Nov 10), vs. Grizzlies (Nov.13)
16. Miami Heat 3-4 (18) +1
OFF: 112.2(16th) DEF:112.1(13th) NET: +0.5(14th)
The big takeaway I got from the Heat, especially this week, is the close losses. When diving into the numbers, the Heat have struggled mightily in the third quarter. This season, they have the third-worst net rating strictly in the third quarter. In three of their four losses, Miami was outscored by 18 points after halftime. Bam Adebayo had a big game against the Wizards but is still struggling from the field so far.
Week Schedule: @ Nuggets (Nov.8) @ Timberwolves (Nov.10) @ Pistons (Nov.12)
17. San Antonio Spurs 4-5 (21) +5
OFF: 108.3 (26th) DEF:111.2(10th) NET:-2.2 (17th)
Despite, Victor Wembyama’s slow start to the season offensively at least, there has been some positive takeaways from the Spurs so far. For starters, the Spurs have gotten 4 wins a month quicker than they did last year which occurred on December 15. Another positive is Chris Paul showing some old flashes of the old CP3 at 39 years old. San Antonio is also 10th in defensive efficiency which is a huge improvement compared to last season. Once Wemby finds his stride, the Spurs are going to be scary. The most important thing is to pray for Gregg Popovich who stepped away from the team after a health scare.
Week Schedule: vs. Jazz (Nov 9), vs Kings (Nov 11) vs. Wizards (Nov.13)
18. Brooklyn Nets 4-4 (24) +6
OFF: 114.4(19th) DEF: 114.2(17th) NET: -0.3 (15th)
This team as currently constructed might not win a lot of games or compete for the playoffs. However, this is a very feisty team that is capable of being competitive on any given night. Cam Thomas has been up and down as the #1 option but is still averaging 25 points on 42#% shooting from the field. Cam Johnson has had a solid week by averaging 20 points a night on nearly 54% shooting from the field. It’s going to be a tough week for the Nets as they have two games against the Celtics and one against the undefeated Cavs.
Week Schedule: @ Celtics (Nov.8) @ Cavaliers (Nov.9) @ Pelicans (Nov.11) vs. Celtics (Nov.13)
19. Atlanta Hawks 4-5 (27) +8
OFF: 112.2(17th) DEF:117.6(26th) NET:-5.3(22nd)
The highlight of the week was their win against the New York Knicks. Not only did they win but #1 pick Zacharrie Risacher had a career high of 33 points and 7 rebounds. However, as a rookie, he has shown signs of promise but is extremely inconsistent. It was also good to see Jalen Johnson bounce back after a slow start to the season. Of course, Trae Young is still Trae. The Hawks right now are young and incredibly exciting to watch. Still a horrible defensive team.
Week Schedule: @ Pistons (Nov.8) vs. Bulls (Nov.9) @ Celtics (Nov.12)
20. Milwaukee Bucks 2-6 (22) +2
OFF: 112.1(16th) DEF:114.9(19th) NET:-2.9 (18th)
It was a much better week for the Bucks despite a 1-2 record. Milwaukee was able to pick up a win against the Jazz and they went down to the wire in both games against the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers. A positive takeaway was from Damian Lillard who absolutely had a monster week by averaging 38 points on 62% shooting from 3. It’s still early in the season, but the Bucks are hoping to get their season back on track after a slow start.
Week Schedule: vs. Cavaliers (L1) @ Cavaliers(L2) vs. Jazz (W23)
21. Orlando Magic 3-6 (14) -7
OFF: 105.8 (29th) DEF:109.1(6th) NET: -3.9(20th)
It was expected that the Magic were going to struggle without Paolo Banchero. However, four consecutive losses with 3 of the 4 in double digits was not expected especially by a team that takes pride in being an elite defensive team. The real issue with Orlando has been their 3-point shooting. They are currently dead last in 3-point percentage and 2 of 4 losses this week have been under 20% from deep. Talk about Yikes. The Magic hope this 4 game home stand will help them get back on track.
22. Detroit Pistons 3-6 (28) +6
OFF:109.2(24th) DEF:112.1(12th) NET: -3.0(19th)
It is only early November and the Pistons managed to get to 3 wins 56 days earlier compared to last year. That’s an improvement so far! (Knock on wood to avoid jinxing Detroit on another historic losing season). But so far, Detroit has been okay. Obviously, the 30-point loss to the Knicks was not ideal, but Jaden Ivey had a big week and is looking like a backcourt mate to compliment Cade Cunningham and the Pistons are currently in the top 15 in defensive efficiency so far.
Week Schedule: vs. Hawks (Nov.8) vs. Rockets (Nov.10) vs. Heat(Nov.12) @ Bucks (Nov.13)
23. Portland Trail Blazers 3-6 (25) +2
OFF: 109.1(25th) DEF:114.8(18th) NET: -5.8(23rd)
Talk about a bipolar week for the Blazers. You lose two games by double digits and yet win a game on the road by 18 and almost beat a dominant Suns squad. Jokes aside, the Blazers might not win a lot of games, and they might not even win 20 games this year, but Portland is a team that is feisty and is capable of upsetting teams on any night. In their defeat to Phoenix, Portland was able to rally back and hold Phoenix to 16 points in the 4th quarter and under 40% shooting the entire game.
Week Schedule: @ Timberwolves (Nov.9) vs. Grizzlies (Nov.10) vs. Timberwolves (Nov.12) vs. Timberwolves (Nov.13)
24. Charlotte Hornets 3-5 (23) -1
OFF: 111.7 (19th) DEF: 117.5(24th) NET:-6.0 (24th)
If it weren’t for a 1-point victory against the Detroit Pistons, then the Hornets would have had a winless week and likely further down the rankings. LaMelo Ball is obviously a superstar and it was great to see Brandon Miller back in the lineup after missing the start of the year. The schedule this upcoming week should be a little bit easier for Charlotte to get a couple of wins to stay in the play-in tournament picture.
Week Schedule: vs. Pacers (Nov.8) @ 76ers (Nov.10) @ Magic (Nov.12)
25. New Orleans Pelicans 3-6 (20) -5
OFF: 111.2(20th) DEF:119.8(30th) NET:-8.5(27th)
I don’t understand this team. One night, the Pelicans beat a solid team expecting to compete for the playoffs. Another night, they get blown out by a team expected to tank this season. Their issue has been defense. It has been a mess. New Orleans is ranked dead last in defensive efficiency, 29th in opponents’ points in the paint, and 28th in opponents’ fast break points. Yes, injuries have hurt this team but how do they get blown out by Portland twice in 9 games? Heads might roll if this trend continues.
Week Schedule: @ Magic (Nov.8) vs. Nets (Nov.11) @ Thunder (Nov.13)
26. Chicago Bulls 3-6 (19) -7
OFF: 107.8(28th) DEF: 115.3(21st) NET:-7.4 (26th)
When a team loses by an average of 13 points in a week and loses to arguably the worst team in the NBA, they deserve to be dropped several pegs in the rankings. A bright spot for this team was Nikola Vucevic who averaged 21 points and 10 rebounds for the week. Speaking of which if the Bulls are headed towards punting the season, when will Vucevic and Zach Lavine be dealt? Both players are playing well and barring injury, Chicago could get a huge haul of assets and draft capital for both players.
Week Schedule: @ Hawks (Nov. 9) vs. Cavaliers (Nov.11) @ Knicks (Nov.11)
27. Philadelphia 76ers 1-6 (15) -12
OFF: 108.1 (27th) DEF: 116.5(22nd) NET:-8.6(28th)
Well, let’s hope the 76ers already reached their low point this season. More news about Joel Embid and his altercation with a news report broke headlines this past week and resulted in a 3-game suspension. The good news though is Paul George made his return and shaking off the rust and Joel Embid is expected to make his debut next week. Still a lot of time, but Philly needs to rack up some wins. Also, Tyrese Maxey is expected to be out multiple weeks with a hamstring injury. Ugh.
Week Schedule: @ Lakers (Nov.8) vs. Hornets (Nov.10) vs. Knicks (Nov.12) vs. Cavaliers (Nov.13)
28. Toronto Raptors 2-7 (29) +1
OFF: 113.3(13th) DEF:119.9(29th) NET:-6.7(25th)
Toronto might not be very good this year, but they have the best city jerseys. Seriously, with the purple jerseys and with RJ Barrett being the number 1 option it brings back a lot of nostalgia for when Vince Carter was the man in Canada. Once Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley return, the Raptors are going to still lose a ton, but are going to be fun and stylish doing it. Gradey Dick has looked like a keeper so far for Toronto as he has increased his average from 8 points to 20 points so far this year.
Week Schedule: @ Clippers (Nov.9) @ Lakers (Nov.10) @ Bucks (Nov.12)
29. Washington Wizards 2-4 (26) -3
OFF:109.3 (23rd) DEF: 117.5 (28th) NET: -9.5(29th)
What’s there to take away from the Wizards this week? Two losses by double digits by two teams that are expected to be much better. This week’s schedule doesn’t get any easier as they have all their games on the road against playoff-contending teams. A positive takeaway Alex Sarr had a good week by improving his numbers of 14 points on 47.6% shooting.
Week Schedule: @ Grizzlies (Nov. 8) @ Magic (Nov.10) @ Rockets (Nov.11) @ Spurs (Nov.13)
30. Utah Jazz 1-6 (30) –
OFF: 102.6(30th) DEF:118.1 (27th) NET: -15.7(30th):
The Jazz finally won a game! And they didn’t look bad doing with Keyonte George leading the way with 33 points and 9 assists. Walter Kessler had a good week overall averaging 15 points and 15 boards. From a team perspective, it still has been ugly. 2 losses by 20 points or more, and the Jazz have the worst net rating in the NBA by far.
Week Schedule: @ Spurs (Nov.9) vs. Suns (Nov.12) vs. Mavericks (Nov.14)
Main Image: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
