NBA Power Rankings: Thunder Lead, LeBron's 76ers Surge to No. 2
Early season surprises and veteran prowess shape the initial NBA landscape as teams vie for contention.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have claimed the top spot in the latest NBA power rankings, signaling their intent to build on past success after reaching the 2025 championship and being eliminated in the 2026 Western Conference Finals. The Thunder have started the season with decisive wins against the Spurs and Nuggets.
LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers have surged to No. 2, demonstrating their championship aspirations by defeating the defending champion New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics. At 42 years old, James's pursuit of a fifth title appears viable if the 76ers maintain their current performance.
The New York Knicks, despite an 0-2 start, remain near the top as defending champions, earning them a spot until their performance proves otherwise. The San Antonio Spurs, led by Wemby, are expected to contend despite integrating a new three-guard rotation.
The Houston Rockets are emerging as a potential dark horse in the Western Conference, with Fred VanVleet returning and a strong supporting cast including Kevin Durant, Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, and Jabari Smith Jr. The Los Angeles Lakers' success will hinge on Walker Kessler's performance, with early indications being positive.
The Minnesota Timberwolves, powered by Anthony Edwards' explosive start, and the Toronto Raptors, with a dominant opening performance from their starters, also show early promise. The Detroit Pistons face a challenge with Jalen Duren's hamstring strain, while the Boston Celtics are looking strong with standout performances from Paul George and Jayson Tatum.
Other notable teams include the Denver Nuggets, whose depth is a concern, and the Portland Trail Blazers, who welcome back Damian Lillard. The Memphis Grizzlies feature promising young talent in 19-year-old Cam Boozer. The Cleveland Cavaliers will need more from James Harden, and the Dallas Mavericks hope Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg can find their rhythm.
Teams like the Indiana Pacers, with Tyrese Haliburton leading the way, and the Miami Heat, despite an 0-3 start, remain on the radar. The Atlanta Hawks show promise with contributions across the roster, and the Charlotte Hornets are seeing strong play from Naz Reid. The Orlando Magic, however, face a potentially long season if they don't improve.
The Utah Jazz, Phoenix Suns, and Washington Wizards are seeking consistency. The Chicago Bulls are looking to Caleb Wilson for a strong Rookie of the Year campaign. The Los Angeles Clippers are dealing with injuries but seeing a resurgence from Darius Garland.
The Golden State Warriors are hampered by injuries, though still feature Steph Curry and Draymond Green. The New Orleans Pelicans, Sacramento Kings, Brooklyn Nets, and Milwaukee Bucks face uphill battles, with the Bucks entering a rebuilding phase after Giannis Antetokounmpo's departure.