Wednesday, November 2, 2016

NBA Power Rankings Week 1 (Oct. 25-Oct. 31)

The first Monday in the 2016-17 NBA season has concluded and with that we have seen 6 days of regular season basketball.  Through the first 6 days alone, we saw the Big Four Warriors lose by 29, King James put up a Triple Double on opening night, Chicago shoot the three with success, and Anthony Davis take on a super team single-handedly.  Oh, and did I mention Russell Westbrook is playing like an absolute freak?!  Yeah, it's happening.  And that is just some of what the NBA offered us through the first 144 hours of the season.  Without further ado, here's where each teams lies after 6 days.

#1 - San Antonio Spurs

Last Week Ranking: 3 (+2)
Season Record: 4-0
Last Week Record: 4-0 
Schedule: W @ Golden State (129-100), W @ Sacramento (102-94), W vs. New Orleans (98-79), W @ Miami (106-99)

San Antonio made it clear that they were ready for business, storming out of the gates for an opening night 29 point whopping against Golden State and in front of Dubs fans.  I think we also know by now that Kawhi Leonard is a legit MVP candidate.  The Klaw put up 35 points, 5 rebounds and 5 steals versus Golden State and their Big Four.  Through the first 4 games, he has an average of 28.0 PPG, 4.3 APG, and 3.3 SPG.  The Spurs also benefited greatly from breakout role player Jonathon Simmons.  Simmons, who showed flashes of potential last season, burst onto the scene, scoring 20 points on 8-14 shooting against the Warriors.  While San Antonio did struggle a bit with Sacramento, this team looks to be the best in the league after taking down Golden State and playing solid ball in their other three wins.

This Week: vs. Utah (Tue., Nov. 1), @ Utah (Fri., Nov. 4), vs. Los Angeles Clippers (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Patty Mills.  As Tony Parker gets older, San Antonio will look for ways to keep him rested for the postseason.  Mills is in line to benefit the most from this.  He's been scoring so far too, averaging 13.3 PPG in 22.5 MPG. 

#2 - Cleveland Cavaliers
 
Last Week Ranking: 1 (-1)
Season Record: 3-0
Last Week Record: 3-0
Schedule: W vs. New York (117-88), W @ Toronto (94-91), W vs. Orlando (105-99)

Falling from the top spot are the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers.  They are really close to being number one, though.  However, if not for another clutch three from Kyrie Irving late in Friday night's game in Toronto, Cleveland might be sitting at 2-1.  That is not the case, as Kyrie continues to stake his claim as being one of the best in the game and willing to take the big shot.  Last Tuesday was a big moment for the team and the city of Cleveland, as the Cavs received their Championship rings and raised their Championship banner.  Occurring simultaneously next door at Progressive Field, the Indians opened Game 1 of the World Series against the Chicago Cubs.  Inside the Q, LeBron James and company spoiled the debut of the new look Knicks with former Chicago stars (Bulls, not Cubs) Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah.  King James tore it up, recording his 43rd career triple double with 19 points, 14 assists and 11 rebounds.  There is no question this is the best team in the East and, arguably, in all of basketball.

This Week: vs. Houston (Tue., Nov. 1), vs. Boston (Thu., Nov. 3), @ Philadelphia (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Kyrie Irving.  The guy has taken big strides in 2016, and has looked to continue it to begin the season.  He will be counted on immensely throughout the season for both his scoring and leadership.

#3 - Golden State Warriors

Last Week Ranking: 2 (-1)
Season Record: 2-1
Last Week Record: 2-1

Schedule: L vs. San Antonio (129-100), W @ New Orleans (122-114), W @ Phoenix (106-100)

Well, there's that.  No more starting off the season 24-0.  Golden State's 2016-17 campaign began with a big punch to the face.  San Antonio came in, stomped all over the Dubs, and left them in front of the fans at Oracle to be exposed.  But it made one thing clear: San Antonio means business and have an array of experience, while Golden State has some serious kinks to work through.  Granted, it was only game 1 of 82, but for a team that won 73 games last season, a regular season loss has been as rare as spotting the Loch Ness.  Following their embarrassing season opener, Golden State struggled mightily to control New Orleans.  Let me rephrase that: Golden State struggled mightily to control one player on New Orleans.  That player is named Anthony Davis, and he had his way with the new look Warriors.  In the final three minutes of the game, Davis had 13 points and 3 rebounds (all offensive).  Golden State didn't have an answer defensively.  There's time, but they need to figure things out quickly.

This Week: @ Portland (Tue., Nov. 1), vs. Oklahoma City (Thu., Nov. 3), @ Los Angeles Lakers (Fri., Nov. 4)

Watch For: Klay Thompson.  So far, Durant is averaging 31.3 PPG and 10.3 RPG, Curry has 25.7 PPG, and Draymond is at 10.3 PPG, 12.0 RPG, and 7.3 APG.  Klay has taken the biggest hit though, averaging 17.7 PPG.  There's only one ball, and we knew someone (or everyone) would have to sacrifice.  Watch how this plays out through the next week and the rest of the season.

#4 - Oklahoma City Thunder


Last Week Ranking: 10 (+6)
Season Record: 3-0
Last Week Record: 3-0
Schedule: W @ Philadelphia (103-97), W vs. Phoenix (113-110), W vs. Los Angeles Lakers (113-96)

Yes, I realize who Oklahoma City has played.  Yes, I know that Durant is no longer wearing Blue and Orange.  But I also have recognized that the Thunder might have the most explosive player and future MVP on their roster, Russell Westbrook, and I have noticed that they're undefeated.  Can we talk about Westbrook for a second?  I mean, we all saw it coming, but DANG!  In three games, Russ has two triple doubles and was an assist away in the Sixers game from going 3-3.  He's averaging 38.7 PPG, 12.3 RPG, and 11.7 APG.  Alright, this likely won't last all season (could it??) but it is impressive nonetheless and worthy of our attention, no matter who OKC is playing.  This week, OKC will be tasked with the challenge of going on the road to face the Clippers and Warriors and returning home to host Minnesota on Saturday.  If they can manage 2-1, look for them to stay in the top 5 next week.

This Week: @ Los Angeles Clippers (Wed., Nov. 2), @ Golden State (Thu., Nov. 3), vs. Minnesota (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Westbrook.  No, scratch that, that's obvious, we're all watching.  Watch for Oladipo.  Over the next week, OKC will need another scoring option besides Westbrook.  All of last week, Oladipo was pressing too much, shooting 18-53 (34%) and forcing shots.  It could take time, but he needs to play smarter if OKC succeeds this year.

#5 - Los Angeles Clippers

Last Week Ranking: 4 (-1)
Season Record: 3-0
Last Week Record: 3-0
Schedule: W @ Portland (114-106), W vs. Utah (88-75), W vs. Phoenix (116-98)

Sliding down a spot to accommodate for OKC's rise are the LA Clippers.  The Clippers started the season off strong (and physical) in what felt like a playoff game with Portland.  DeAndre Jordan got into it a few times with Mason Plumlee and tempers heated up.  There was quite a bit of back and forth action for awhile, but Los Angeles finally pulled away in the fourth and secured their first win of the year.  Then, on Sunday, they held Utah to 75 and won game 2.  As one of the three undefeated teams remaining in the West, the Clippers picked up key wins last week against playoff caliber teams and head into this week with a couple difficult matchups.  First, they host OKC on Wednesday.  Then, they are hosted by San Antonio on Saturday.  Still, Chris Paul and company have it all on paper.  This season, while still focused on winning, needs to be focused on mentality, chemistry and comradery.

This Week: vs. Oklahoma City (Wed., Nov. 2), @ Memphis (Fri., Nov. 4), @ San Antonio (Sat. Nov. 5)

Watch For: Blake Griffin.  Many forget that this time last year we were all saying Blake could win MVP (32.0 PPG, 9.0 RPG in first week).  While he's not doing that yet, a large part of the Clippers success hinges on the performance of Blake Griffin.

#6 - Toronto Raptors

Last Week Ranking: 6 (--)
Season Record: 2-1
Last Week Record: 2-1
Schedule: W vs. Detroit (109-91), L vs. Cleveland (94-91), W vs. Denver (105-102)

Toronto remains number 2 in the East and number 6 on the list after a nice opening week to get things going.  In a week that saw LeBron put up a triple double, Kawhi score 35, Anthony Davis put up 50 and then 45 and Russell Westbrook post two triple doubles, DeMar DeRozan had a very quiet 40 point game against Detroit.  He has the smoothest mid-range game in the NBA and should be recognized as a superstar by now.  In a rematch of last season's Eastern Conference Finals, Toronto held the Cavs to 94 in a tight game north of the border, but could not prevail.  That didn't stop DeRozan from putting Tristan Thompson on poster though.  Tying the game at 91, DeRozan drove the lane, rising up in full extension with the ball cocked back and demolished Thompson in what is the dunk of the year so far.  Still, Kyrie hit a big three that proved to be the game winner and Toronto fell short in a good early season game.

This Week: @ Washington (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Miami (Fri., Nov. 4), vs. Sacramento (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: DeMar DeRozan.  While Kyle Lowry is important, this team will go as far as DeRozan takes them.  He is still on the rise and has started out hot, averaging 35 PPG.  With DeRozan ascending, we'll see how far he brings Toronto.

#7 - Portland Trailblazers

Last Week Ranking: 8 (+1)
Season Record: 2-1
Last Week Record: 2-1
Schedule: W vs. Utah (113-104), L vs. Los Angeles Clippers (114-106), W vs. Denver (115-113)

Some could say that this a bit too high for Portland, who skated by Denver on Sunday in a game that was given away by the Nuggets.  Denver was up 8 with 1:25 left in regulation.  Then, in a matter of 47 seconds, Damian Lillard hit a 28 footer, McCollum drove the lane and converted on an And-1, and Lillard, with 2 seconds left, hit a runner over The Manimal, Kenneth Faried, to force OT.  In Overtime, it was McCollum and Lillard again.  McCollum, who scored 7 in extra time, got the board off of a blocked Danilo Gallinari shot, dishing it off to Lillard who nailed the game winning jumper and Portland completed the comeback.  So, was it really given away, or did we just witness one of the best backcourts in the NBA will their team back to a win?  Most likely a little bit of both, but one thing is for certain: Damian Lillard is CLUTCH.  This team may continue to be counted out but they will not go down without a fight.

This Week: vs. Golden State (Tue, Nov. 1), @ Phoenix (Wed., Nov. 2), @ Dallas (Fri., Nov. 4), @ Memphis (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: Dame Dolla.  After successfully releasing his first rap album, "The Letter O," a week ago Friday, Lillard scorched Utah the following Tuesday for 39 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists.  He is the real deal.

#8 - Chicago Bulls

Last Week Ranking: 12 (+4)
Season Record: 3-0
Last Week Record: 3-0
Schedule: W vs. Boston (105-99), W vs. Indiana (118-101), W @ Brooklyn (118-88)

Chicago finds themselves sitting inside the top 10 this week after an impressive start to the season.  The team that most were writing off due to their lack of outside shooting and worries about how the Three Alphas would get along came out and answered critics.  On Thursday night against Boston, Chicago welcomed home Dwyane Wade and he proceeded to nail his first three 3 point shots.  Late in the game, Wade scooped up a loose ball, stepped back behind the arc, and drilled the game clinching 3.  Jimmy Butler shot 4-6 from deep and new Bulls Rondo and Carter-Williams also each splashed home a 3.  There's a chance that this doesn't last all season.  After all, none of these four have shot over 40% from behind the arc in a season.  But so far, the Bulls are scoring and are playing as a team, and they have a nice blend of veteran leadership with young talent.  I like the direction this team is going.

This Week: @ Boston (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. New York (Fri., Nov. 4), @ Indiana (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Nikola Mirotic.  Mirotic is coming off the bench for now behind Taj Gibson, but is likely the Bulls best option for threes.  In his first two games, he shot 1-6 and 1-4 from deep.  However, in Brooklyn, he shot 4-10 from behind the arc, scoring 16 points and gathering 10 rebounds.  

#9 - Atlanta Hawks

Last Week Ranking: 21 (+12)
Season Record: 3-0
Last Week Record: 3-0
Schedule: W vs. Washington (114-99), W @ Philadelphia (104-72), W vs. Sacramento (106-95)

I'll be honest, I doubted Atlanta this season.  I thought that this will be the season where they finally take a step back, and it very well could be, but they are shattering that notion with their play through the first week.  In each of Atlanta's games so far, they have won by double digits.  The good thing about this team so far: There are no morale issues yet.  Yet is the key word there.  Thus far, Dwight Howard has appeared to be happy and to have found new life returning home to the ATL.  Millsap is still the leader of the team, but there have been no conflicts.  Coach Bud has his team playing together and performing above expectations.  Of course, this shouldn't be a complete surprise to us considering Atlanta finished with the best record in the East two years ago and was once again a top four team last season.  We'll see what happens when they face tougher competition, but through one week, Atlanta looks solid.

This Week: vs. Los Angeles Lakers (Wed., Nov. 2), @ Washington (Fri., Nov. 4), vs. Houston (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Dennis Schroder.  The command of the offense has been turned over to him for the season, and he has responded well so far.  Against the Sixers, Schroder recorded his eighth career Double Double with 11 points and 11 assists.

#10 - Boston Celtics

Last Week Ranking: 7 (-3)
Season Record: 2-1
Last Week Record: 2-1
Schedule: W vs. Brooklyn (122-117), L @ Chicago (105-99), W @ Charlotte (104-98)

 Falling down the rankings a few spots is Boston.  Boston started the year with a shootout home opening win against the Brooklyn Nets in a game that saw eight Celtics players score more than 8 points.  The impact of new star Al Horford has been subtle.  Through three games, he is averaging just 12.0 PPG and 5.3 RPG.  Still, his presence down low has warranted some attention from opposing clubs, and defensively he has been active with 2.3 BPG.  The return of Avery Bradley from the hamstring injury that cost him Boston's playoff series last season has been noticeable to say the least.  He is averaging 21.3 PPG, 8.7 RPG, and 4.7 APG, looking like a true 3 and D stud.  We'd be remiss to not mention Isaiah Thomas and his trek to superstardom.  Thomas has been extremely consistent, scoring 25-25-24 in his three games this season.  He is still the driving force of this team.  Wait for this team to get Marcus Smart and Kelly Olynyk back from injury and watch out.  For the time being, this week is big for the Celtics.  They get a rematch with Chicago, this time in Boston, and travel to face the Cavs the following evening.

This Week: vs. Chicago (Wed., Nov. 2), @ Cleveland (Thu., Nov. 3), vs. Denver (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: Avery Bradley.  The chances that he keeps up this pace are slim, but there is a chanceLast year, we saw C.J. McCollum step into a major role with Portland and succeed.  While Bradley is different from McCollum, he could be a factor in helping Boston take that next step.

#11 - Charlotte Hornets

Last Week Ranking: 14 (+3)
Season Record: 2-1
Last Week Record: 2-1
Schedule: W @ Milwaukee (107-96), W @ Miami (97-91), L vs. Boston (104-98)

Charlotte climbs the ladder this week after winning 2 of their 3 matchups last week.  So far, I think Charlotte is just about where everyone expected them after a week.  This squad benefited from the return of Michael Kidd-Gilchrist against Milwaukee, when he scored 23 points to go along with 14 rebounds.  Over the next two games, though, MKG only scored 10 points and had 9 reboundsThe first game was a flash of what we all saw MKG capable of doing when he was drafted #2 overall after leaving Kentucky, but the most recent games have looked more like two years ago MKG.  Regardless, Buzz City has to feel good about the start to the season.  This team won't blow anyone out of the water.  They struggle to find a second scoring option after Kemba, but after one week of ball, no one can complain about the Hornets and the direction they're going.

This Week: vs. Philadelphia (Wed., Nov. 2), @ Brooklyn (Fri., Nov. 4)

Watch For: Marvin Williams.  Aside from Kemba and Batum doing the major lifting, guys like Marvin Williams will need to continue to provide for Charlotte.  Thus far, Williams is averaging 9.7 PPG and 8.0 RPG.  His steadiness will be heavily relied on as we get further into the season.

#12 - Indiana Pacers

Last Week Ranking: 5 (-7)
Season Record: 1-2
Last Week Record: 1-2
Schedule: W vs. Dallas (130-121), L @ Brooklyn (103-94), L @ Chicago (118-101)

What happened?  Seriously, does anyone know?  I surely don't.  The Pacers had a lot of hype to begin the season, with many (including me) predicting a top 3 finish in the East.  It is early and there are still a number of games to be played, but this can't be what first year Head Coach Nate McMillan and Indiana's fan base pictured.  In the first game, Indiana nearly let Dallas steal the game away.  The Mavs outscored Indiana 30-21 to force the game to Overtime, but ran out of juice once the extra time began.  Then, in what was perhaps the most shocking game of the week, Indiana got roughed up and out-played by Brooklyn.  I'll say it again.  Indiana got beat by Brooklyn.  Newly acquired Point Guard and Indianapolis resident Jeff Teague has struggled mightily, shooting just 20% from the field.  The breakthrough of Myles Turner has kept things positive in Indiana, but Paul George and company need to figure things out.

This Week: vs. Los Angeles Lakers (Tue., Nov. 1), @ Milwaukee (Thu., Nov. 3), vs. Chicago (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Myles Turner.  He always had the potential, but now he is finally showing it.  He came sprinting out of the blocks the first night with 30 points and 16 rebounds.  His mid-range, pick and pop game looked much better this week.

#13 - Houston Rockets

Last Week Ranking: 11 (-2)
Season Record: 2-1
Last Week Record: 2-1
Schedule: L @ Los Angeles Lakers (120-114), W @ Dallas (106-98), W vs. Dallas (93-92)

After dropping the season opener to the young gun Lakers, Houston bounced back with back-to-back wins versus Dallas.  Most knew this team would be fun to watch, and that has been the case, with a number of three's being put up.  Harden has been spectacular at his new position, dishing out 17 assists to go along with 34 points against the Lakers.  He's averaging close to a Triple Double so far with 29.3 PPG, 10.7 APG and 7.3 RPG.  Clint Capela has been solid as well at Center, taking over for the departed Dwight Howard.  His rebounding has been consistent, going 9-9-10 through three games.  Houston has some big games this week as they hit the road to take on Cleveland, followed by a trip to Madison Square Garden versus the Knicks and finished with a game in Atlanta against Dwight Howard and the Hawks.

This Week: @ Cleveland (Tue., Nov. 1), @ New York (Wed., Nov. 2), @ Atlanta (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Clint Capela.  As this team gels and gets into a faster offense, will Capela still be effective or will Head Coach Mike D'Antoni opt to play small?

#14 - Detroit Pistons

Last Week Ranking: 15 (+1)
Season Record: 2-1
Last Week Record: 2-1
Schedule: L @ Toronto (109-91), W vs. Orlando (108-82), W vs. Milwaukee (98-83)

Detroit moves up a spot after an above .500 week.  After getting trounced by Toronto on the road, Detroit traveled back across the border to The Palace and destroyed Orlando and Milwaukee.  Detroit is ranked second in the NBA in Opponents Points Per Game with 91.3 PPG given up.  Granted, they faced Orlando and Milwaukee, two teams that have a combined record of 1-5 so far.  However, the Pistons defense has stepped up, thanks to guys like Andre Drummond (12.0 DRPG, 1.0 BPG) and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (2.0 SPG).  Despite Reggie Jackson being out due to a knee injury, Ish Smith has performed well, scoring 16 points and handing out 8 assists in the game against OrlandoHe will continue to handle the ball in the wake of Jackson's injury.

This Week: vs. New York (Tue., Nov. 1), @ Brooklyn (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Denver (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Tobias Harris.  While Drummond fills up the stat sheet by scoring and being active on the glass, Tobias leads the team in points so far.  Through the first week, Harris is shooting 56.1% from the field, averaging 18.7 PPG in those contests.

#15 - Memphis Grizzlies

Last Week Ranking: 23 (+8)
Season Record: 2-1
Last Week Record: 2-1
Schedule: W vs. Minnesota (102-98), L @ New York (111-104), W vs. Washington (112-103)

Perhaps I jumped the gun again by saying Memphis would miss the playoffs this year.  Again, it's only been one week, but they are putting that claim in doubt.  Fresh off his 5 year, $153 million contract, Mike Conley came out and put up 24 points on 8-14 shooting to lead Memphis to a win over Minnesota.  Four nights later, Conley notched his 46th career Double Double with 24 points and 11 assists in a win over Washington.  In the loss to New York on Saturday, Conley only shot nine times, making four and finishing with 11 points.  Needless to say, when Conley gets going, Memphis gets going.  Zach Randolph has embraced his new role coming off the bench, averaging 18.0 PPG and 9.0 RPG in 23.7 MPG.  Memphis always seems to overachieve, and so far, they have been doing just that.

This Week: @ Minnesota (Tue, Nov. 1), vs. New Orleans (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Los Angeles Clippers (Fri., Nov. 4), vs. Portland (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: James Ennis.  Who?  Yeah exactly.  But really, the fourth year Small Forward out of Long Beach State has looked good filling in for the injured Chandler Parsons.  In three games, he's averaging 13.0 PPG and 7.3 RPG while shooting 52% from the field.

#16 - Miami Heat

Last Week Ranking: 18 (+2)
Season Record: 1-2
Last Week Record: 1-2
Schedule: W @ Orlando (108-96), L vs Charlotte (97-91), L vs. San Antonio (106-99)

Miami started out the year with a somewhat difficult first week, having to go against the 2-1 Charlotte Hornets and the undefeated San Antonio Spurs.  Over this first week, though, we've seen Justise Winslow blossom into a starter and Hassan Whiteside continue to put up impressive numbers.  In three games, Whiteside has 10 blocks already.  He's also averaging 21.7 PPG and 14.7 RPG.  Miami only has 3 games in the next 9 days before taking on Chicago, Utah, San Antonio and Atlanta.  This spread out schedule allows time for guys like Josh Richardson and Josh McRoberts to heal from their injuries.

This Week: vs. Sacramento (Tue., Nov. 1), @ Toronto (Fri., Nov. 4)

Watch For: Goran Dragic.  The Dragon is scoring 18.7 PPG and averaging 6.7 APG.

On The Outside Looking In:

#17 - Denver Nuggets

Last Week Ranking: 24 (+7)     Season Record: 1-2     Last Week Record: 1-2
Schedule:  W @ New Orleans (107-102), L vs. Portland (115-113), L @ Toronto (105-102)

Despite being 1-2, Denver has played well in all three games.  Perhaps the most frustrating loss of the season came against Portland, when the Nuggets were up 8 with less than 1:30 to play.  Lillard hit some clutch shots, including the game winner, to knock off Denver at the Pepsi Center.  Still, Denver's point difference is zero, with both of their losses coming within one possession.

This Week: @ Minnesota (Thu., Nov. 3), @ Detroit (Sat., Nov. 5), @ Boston (Sun, Nov. 6)

Watch For: Jusuf Nurkic.  He has been impressive thus far, putting up 16.0 PPG an12.0 RPG.

#18 - Utah Jazz

Last Week Ranking: 9 (-9)     Season Record: 1-2     Last Week Record: 1-2
Schedule: L @ Portland (113-104), W vs. Los Angeles Lakers (96-89), L @ Los Angeles Clippers (88-75)

Contrary to my thoughts on Memphis, perhaps I thought too highly of this team.  Take it for what it's worth, but this team has struggled to score, posting the lowest PPG mark in the Western Conference at 95.3.  Could it be because Utah doesn't have last season's leading scorer Gordon Hayward back from injury?  This could be the case.  With Hayward out for another 2-3 weeks, though, the Jazz need to find a way to put up points without their star.

This Week: @ San Antonio (Tue., Nov. 1), vs. Dallas (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. San Antonio (Fri., Nov. 4), @ New York (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: George Hill.  The newly acquired Point Guard has taken on the major load of scoring, averaging 20 points a game.

#19 - Minnesota Timberwolves

Last Week Ranking: 17 (-2) Season Record: 0-2 Last Week Record: 0-2
Schedule: L @ Memphis (102-98), L @ Sacramento (106-103)

The young Wolves are still searching for their first win with first year Head Coach Tom Thibodeau.  It appeared that the first win of the season would come in the first game, but that was not the case.  The Timberwolves squandered a 9 point lead at the half, opening the door for Memphis to come back and win the game.  Coach Thibs said it best, this team lacks discipline.  Maturity can develop over time.  How much time is the question.

This Week: vs. Memphis (Tue., Nov. 1), vs. Denver (Thu., Nov. 3), @ Oklahoma City (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Gorgui Dieng.  With all the hype and attention centering around Karl-Anthony Towns, Dieng is the one opposing teams have been forgetting about.  He's averaging 13.0 PPG to go along with 13.5 RPG.

#20 - Sacramento Kings

Last Week Ranking: 27 (+7)     Season Record: 2-2     Last Week Record: 2-2
Schedule: W @ Phoenix (113-94), L vs. San Antonio (102-94), W vs. Minnesota (106-103), L @ Atlanta (106-95)

Albeit 2-2, Sacramento has looked strong to start the 2016-17 campaign.  Boogie Cousins is once again front and center for the Kings, leading them in points and rebounds.  On Thursday night against the Spurs, Boogie finished with 37 points and 16 rebounds in what was a wide open contest until late in the 4th.

This Week: @ Miami (Tue., Nov. 1), @ Orlando (Thu., Nov. 3), @ Milwaukee (Sat., Nov. 5), @ Toronto (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: Ty Lawson.  While Darren Collison continues to serve his 8 game suspension, Lawson will continue to get the start at Point Guard.  After this week, the starting spot will presumably go back to Collison.

#21 - New York Knicks

Last Week Ranking: 19 (-2)     Season Record: 1-1     Last Week Record: 1-1
Schedule: L @ Cleveland (117-88), W vs. Memphis (111-104)

Tuesday nights' opening game was about as one sided as the first weekend of College Football.  New York started strong, bringing the game to within 1 at the end of the half, but once the 2nd half got going, LeBron James had a different idea for how the night would go.  Enter a 69-43 second half stomping by the Cavs and New York found themselves asking questions.  They bounced back with a win against Memphis but the brutal loss to start the season cannot be dismissed.

This Week: @ Detroit (Tue., Nov. 1), vs. Houston (Wed., Nov. 2), @ Chicago (Fri., Nov. 4), vs. Utah (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: Derrick Rose.  New York's new point guard and former MVP, now sporting #25, debuted with 17 points.  On Friday, he returns to Chicago for a matchup with the Bulls.

#22 - Los Angeles Lakers

Last Week Ranking: 25 (+3)     Season Record: 1-2     Last Week Record: 1-2
Schedule: W vs. Houston (120-114), L @ Utah (96-89), L @ Oklahoma City (113-96)

One way to make your mark is to win an ESPN primetime game against last seasons playoff contending Houston Rockets.  This is exactly what the young Lakers did.  Despite James Harden dropping a blistering 34 points and 17 assists, the Lakers were able to endure Houston and outscore them 30-18 en route to a 6 point victory.

This Week: @ Indiana (Tue., Nov. 1), @ Atlanta (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Golden State (Fri., Nov. 4), vs. Phoenix (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: Jordan Clarkson.  The third year combo guard out of Missouri got off to a good start Wednesday, scoring 25 points on 8-12 shooting in just 24 minutes of action.

#23 - Milwaukee Bucks

Last Week Ranking: 22 (-1)     Season Record: 1-2     Last Week Record: 1-2
Schedule: L vs. Charlotte (107-96), W vs. Brooklyn (110-108), L @ Detroit (98-83)

The Bucks don't move much this week in the rankings, staying near the low 20's.  This is partly due to their lack of scoring to begin the season.  Most knew Milwaukee would struggle to score from deep without 3-point marksman Khris Middleton.  That has been the case for the Bucks, as they're averaging 27.3% from deep.  Their lone win came off of a put-back layup by John Henson in buzzer-beating fashion against the Nets.

This Week: @ New Orleans (Tue., Nov. 1), vs. Indiana (Thu., Nov. 3), vs. Sacramento (Sat., Nov. 5), @ Dallas (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: Giannis.  The Greek Freak is by far Milwaukee's best player and should make a strong case for being an All-Star this year.  So far, he's averaging 23.0 PPG with 9.3 RPG and 5.3 APG.

#24 - Dallas Mavericks

Last Week Ranking: 20 (-4)     Season Record: 0-3     Last Week Record: 0-3
Schedule: L @ Indiana (130-121), L vs. Houston (106-98), L @ Houston (93-92)

What's worse than getting beat by Houston once?  Getting beat by Houston twice!  In a quirky scheduling move by the NBA, Dallas and Houston met back-to-back, and Houston prevailed both times.  While Dallas played a very fast game against Indiana, scoring 121 and going to Overtime, this team seems old and they have played old too.  Hopefully some of their young guys can usher in a youthful spirit amongst the squad.

This Week: @ Utah (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Portland (Fri., Nov. 4), vs. Milwaukee (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: Harrison Barnes.  Barnes will be the main scoring option for Dallas much of the season.  In the first game against Houston, Barnes put up 31 points on 13-23 from the field.

#25 - Washington Wizards

Last Week Ranking: 13 (-12)     Season Record: 0-2     Last Week Record: 0-2
Schedule: L @ Atlanta (114-99), L @ Memphis (112-103)

The biggest movers in this week's rankings are the Washington Wizards.  While many were feeling optimistic about a new season with a new Head Coach in Scott Brooks and a healthy Bradley Beal, the Wizards are still seeking their first win after one week.  Like Milwaukee, Washington has struggled to shoot the 3, going 24.4% from deep.

This Week: vs. Toronto (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Atlanta (Fri., Nov. 4), @ Orlando (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Bradley Beal.  The 3 point drought will continue unless Beal picks it up.  He shot 2-10 in the first week from deep.

#26 - Brooklyn Nets

Last Week Ranking: 30 (+4)     Season Record: 1-3     Last Week Record: 1-3
Schedule: L @ Boston (122-117), W vs. Indiana (103-94), L @ Milwaukee (110-108), L vs. Chicago (118-88)

Brooklyn isn't in last?!  It's unbelievable!  The win against Indiana is definitely the highlight of the young season for Brooklyn's scrappy bunch.  In this game, Brooklyn was able to limit Paul George and the Pacers enough to pull away in the fourth, winning the quarter 31-15.  Jeremy Lin had an impressive 21 points, 9 assists and 9 rebounds.  If not for a John Henson tip in at the buzzer in Milwaukee, Brooklyn could be looking at a 2-2 start.

This Week: vs. Detroit (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Charlotte (Fri., Nov. 4)

Watch For: Bojan Bogdanovic.  Aside from an awful Pacers game in which he shot 1-6 from the field, Bojan put up 21-26-15 points in the other three matches.

#27 - New Orleans Pelicans

Last Week Ranking: 16 (-11)     Season Record: 0-3     Last Week Record: 0-3
Schedule: L vs. Denver (107-102), L vs. Golden State (122-114), L @ San Antonio (98-79)

The Pelicans might have a top 5 player in the league on their team in Anthony Davis.  After missing the last month of the 2015-16 season, Davis came into the 2016-17 season with a vengeance.  In the first game, Davis stuffed the stat sheet, scoring 50 points and picking up 16 boards, 7 steals, and 4 blocks.  Two nights later, Davis scored 45 against Golden State while grabbing 17 rebonds.  With 95 points through his first two games, Davis passed Michael Jordan (91) for the most points in the first two games of the regular season.

This Week: vs. Milwaukee (Tue., Nov. 1), @ Memphis (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Phoenix (Fri., Nov. 4)

Watch For: Tim Frazier.  Aside from Davis, Frazier is the only other player averaging over 12 points a game for New Orleans.  Frazier made some noise to start the season as well, posting back-to-back Double Doubles against Denver and Golden State.

#28 - Phoenix Suns

Last Week Ranking: 28 (--)     Season Record: 0-4     Last Week Record: 0-4
Schedule: L vs. Sacramento (113-94), L @ Oklahoma City (113-110), L vs. Golden State (106-100), L @ Los Angeles Clippers (116-98)

Phoenix might have had the toughest schedule in the league to start the season, facing 3 of the top 5 teams on the list.  This did not deter Phoenix from confronting the challenge, however.  On Friday, the Suns took Oklahoma City to Overtime, losing by 3.  Sunday night, Phoenix pushed Golden State but eventually lost by 6.

This Week: vs. Portland (Wed., Nov. 2), @ New Orleans (Fri., Nov. 4), @ Los Angeles Lakers (Sun., Nov. 6)

Watch For: T.J. Warren.  Warren has burst onto the scene in his third year out of North Carolina State.  In four games, he's averaging a team-high 21.3 PPG, scoring 30 against OKC and 26 versus Golden State.

#29 - Orlando Magic

Last Week Ranking: 26 (-3)     Season Record: 0-3     Last Week Record: 0-3
Schedule: L vs. Miami (108-96), L @ Detroit (108-82), L @ Cleveland (105-99)

For a young team that got shaken up with the Oladipo for Ibaka trade over the summer and the signing of Bismack Biyombo, the case can be made that, with a little time, Orlando can be a fringe playoff contender.  But if they continue to drop more games to Eastern Conference foes like they did this past week, don't count on it.

This Week: @ Philadelphia (Tue., Nov. 1), vs. Sacramento (Thu., Nov. 3), vs. Washington (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Nikola Vucevic.  So far Vucevic has remained the teams' starting Center and he has backed that up with his play.  Through 3 games, Vucevic is averaging 11.7 PPG and 12.3 RPG.

#30 - Philadelphia 76ers

Last Week Ranking: 29 (-1)     Season Record: 0-2     Last Week Record: 0-2
Schedule: L vs. Oklahoma City (103-97), L vs. Atlanta (104-72)

Despite two losses and the team still searching for it's first win, there's reason to be excited in Philadelphia.  Joel "The Process" Embiid is finally playing and looking like the stud that the Sixers were expecting when they drafted him #3 overall in 2014.  Still on a minutes-restriction, Embiid put up 20 points and 7 boards in 22 minutes of action Wednesday night versus OKC.  He even drew "MVP" chants from the Philadelphia crowd minutes into the game, swatting away a jump shot by Russell Westbrook.

This Week: vs. Orlando (Tue., Nov. 1), @ Charlotte (Wed., Nov. 2), vs. Cleveland (Sat., Nov. 5)

Watch For: Embiid.  The hype around the 7-footer from Cameroon continues to grow.  He has crafty post moves, is a force defensively, and can shoot the three.

That wraps it up for the first week of the NBA Power Rankings.  Be sure to check back next week to see where your team is on the rankings and for more team analysis from the action that unfolds in the Association.

NOTE: Moving forward, the weeks will run from Monday-Sunday.  Therefore, each Power Ranking will be posted either Sunday night after the conclusion of the games or Monday morning/afternoon before tip-off for Monday night games.

Stats from ESPN.com and Basketball-Reference.com


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