NBA Power Rankings: Week of Jan. 8 to Jan. 14

As the NBA season progresses, let’s take a look at the power rankings for the week of Jan. 8 to Jan. 14:

1. Boston Celtics (30-9)

• Previous Ranking: 1
• Despite a blowout loss to the Bucks, the Celtics remain the league’s dominant force, reaching 30 wins first. They hold the best point differential at plus-9.8.

2. Milwaukee Bucks (28-12)

• Previous Ranking: 4
• The Bucks had a productive week with a resounding win over the Celtics. Giannis Antetokounmpo is having an MVP-type season, keeping Milwaukee as a perennial contender.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder (27-11)

• Previous Ranking: 5
• The Thunder continue to impress, sweeping a two-game homestand, including a historic win over the Trail Blazers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander strengthens his MVP case.

4. Minnesota Timberwolves (28-11)

• Previous Ranking: 3
• The Timberwolves faced tough tests but secured a win over the Clippers. They sit atop the Western Conference standings in the middle of January.

5. Denver Nuggets (28-13)

• Previous Ranking: 2
• The Nuggets, perennial contenders, picked up impressive wins over the Pelicans and Pacers, remaining strong in the Western Conference.

6. LA Clippers (25-14)

• Previous Ranking: 6
• The Clippers continue to play excellent basketball and made a significant off-court move by extending Kawhi Leonard. They aim to secure a new deal with Paul George.

7. Philadelphia 76ers (24-13)

• Previous Ranking: 30
• The Sixers looked mortal without Joel Embiid but snapped a three-game losing streak with Tobias Harris scoring 37 points. Embiid is nearing a return.

8. New Orleans Pelicans (24-16)

• Previous Ranking: 8
• The Pelicans showcased their strength in wins over the Mavericks and Warriors. Rookie Jordan Hawkins dropped a career-high 34 points.

9. Sacramento Kings (23-16)

• Previous Ranking: 10
• The Kings had a rough end to the week with a loss to the Bucks on an overtime game-winner. Head coach Mike Brown went on an epic rant about officiating.

10. Miami Heat (23-16)

• Previous Ranking: 11
• Injuries continue to mount for the Heat, but they’ve survived and won two in a row. Miami remains a competitive force in the league.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, the middle of January marks a crucial juncture where teams begin to separate themselves. The Celtics command the top spot, demonstrating their prowess, while contenders fiercely compete for favorable positions in both conferences, shaping the latest power rankings.