NBA Power Rankings: Celtics Lead, Wolves Surge After All-Star Weekend

The NBA season is heating up as we enter the post-All-Star break stretch. In this week’s power rankings, we take a look at the teams that are making a push for the playoffs and the contenders that need to find their footing.

Contenders Feel the Pressure

Last year, the Denver Nuggets came out of the All-Star break with a comfortable lead in the Western Conference. This year, however, the defending champs find themselves trailing the first-place Minnesota Timberwolves. With several teams vying for the top spot, the race is on to secure a favorable playoff position.

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The Milwaukee Bucks, under coach Doc Rivers, have struggled recently, and their position in the Eastern Conference is at risk. The Philadelphia 76ers also need to regroup, regardless of when Joel Embiid returns. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns need to step up their game to stay in the race.

Playoff Hopefuls Make Their Move

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Several teams outside the playoff picture are making a strong push to secure a spot. The Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat are aiming to replicate last year’s postseason success. With the season two-thirds complete, there is still plenty of basketball ahead.

The Week’s Standouts

In this week’s plus-minus players of the week, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves was a plus-70 in three games, showcasing his impact on the court. On the flip side, Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets struggled and ended the week with a minus-47 in two games.

The team of the week goes to the Minnesota Timberwolves, who went 3-0 and secured an impressive road win against the Clippers. On the other hand, the Atlanta Hawks had a rough week, suffering double-digit losses to the Bulls and Hornets.

East vs. West

In interconference games, the West has dominated the East this season, with a record of 167-127. Last week, the West extended its lead with an 8-1 performance.

Schedule Strength

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The toughest schedules based on cumulative opponent record belong to the Golden State Warriors, Memphis Grizzlies, and Portland Trail Blazers. On the other hand, the Phoenix Suns, Philadelphia 76ers, and Cleveland Cavaliers have faced relatively easier schedules.

Rankings Movement

The Minnesota Timberwolves made the biggest jump this week, moving up three spots. Five teams also had a two-spot jump. Conversely, five teams experienced a drop in the rankings.

Team to Watch in Week 18: Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors have been on a hot streak, winning six of their last seven games. They face a crucial three-game homestand after the break, highlighted by a matchup against the Lakers. With playoff aspirations, the Warriors need to maintain their momentum.

Summary

As we enter the final stretch of the NBA season, teams are jockeying for playoff position and making their moves. The Celtics lead the power rankings, but the Wolves are surging. Contenders like the Bucks, 76ers, and Suns are feeling the pressure to secure their playoff spots. Meanwhile, teams like the Warriors, Lakers, and Heat are making a push to replicate last year’s success. Stay tuned for more exciting basketball as the season continues.

FAQs

Q: Who is leading the NBA Power Rankings?
A: The Boston Celtics currently hold the top spot in the NBA Power Rankings.

Q: Which teams are making a strong push for the playoffs?
A: The Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and Miami Heat are all vying for playoff spots and are making a strong push in the rankings.

Q: Which team is the one to watch in Week 18?
A: The Golden State Warriors are the team to watch in Week 18 as they continue their impressive run and face critical matchups in their upcoming homestand.

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