The NBA season is well underway, and the power dynamics among top teams are shifting fast. In a surprising turn, the Cleveland Cavaliers have surged ahead to claim the top spot, surpassing preseason favorites like the Boston Celtics. We are still early in the season, but we are getting an idea about which teams could be challenging in both conferences while there might be surprising performers so far.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - (5-0)
2nd PPG (125.6), 4th OPPG (107.4)
Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley are leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to some great things this season because the Cavaliers have maintained a perfect record in the Eastern Conference. The Cavs have flown under the radar with all eyes on the Celtics, Knicks, and 76ers, but they will be a threat this season. The fact that Mitchell re-signed proves that the Cavaliers’ core is looking very good right now.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder - (4-0)
19th PPG (112.2), 1st OPPG (94.8)
Despite Isaiah Hartenstein’s unfortunate broken hand sidelining him for now, Alex Caruso has stepped in seamlessly, enhancing the Thunder's defensive tenacity. His All-Defensive prowess shines, with impressive steals and blocks in just over 20 minutes per game, setting an elite defensive tone. Oklahoma City’s gritty style and superstar power from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren give them a hard-nosed edge as they chase another strong season with the aim to win a championship.
3. Boston Celtics - (4-1)
1st PPG (125.8), 17th OPPG (114.4)
The defending champions are proving why they’re still the team to beat, maintaining their top spot thanks to relentless defense, smooth offensive continuity, and limited roster changes. Jayson Tatum is a perennial MVP candidate again and the team won’t need Kristaps Porzingis to capture the top seed in the East. So far, the Celtics look unstoppable, setting the standard for early-season dominance.
4. Golden State Warriors - (4-1)
3rd PPG (119.8), 2nd OPPG (99.4)
Buddy Hield has been a revelation for the Golden State Warriors, stepping in as a scoring machine. His blistering 3-point shooting stabilized the Warriors’ offense in the wake of Klay Thompson’s departure, even as key players like Curry and Wiggins dealt with injuries. Hield’s performance has kept the Warriors competitive in a loaded conference.
5. Phoenix Suns - (4-1)
15th PPG (113.8), 12th OPPG (110.8)
Kevin Durant has been on a tear alongside Booker and Beal. The addition of Tyus Jones was also a strong one, since his shooting and high assist rate make him a critical asset, and his early performance is paying dividends as the Suns refine their lineup. The Suns are looking very strong because of their very talented Big Three and they look to contend in the Western Conference because of it.
6. Los Angeles Lakers - (3-2)
11th PPG (115.8), 21st OPPG (117.8)
New head coach JJ Redick’s 3-0 start was impressive, but the Lakers have started to fall with two straight losses. LeBron James is starting to look old even if he will likely put up big numbers throughout the season and Anthony Davis is a perennial MVP candidate, two factors that are opposing each other for the Lakers. The Lakers will always be a threat because of their superstars, but they might not rank in the top 15 for long if they can end their losing streak.
7. Dallas Mavericks - (3-2)
17th PPG (113.0), 9th OPPG (109.8)
The Mavericks' big offseason move brought Klay Thompson, and he’s delivering as advertised. Shooting 38.8% from beyond the arc, Thompson is thriving alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, allowing Dallas to start strong. His renewed defensive focus has also helped stabilize their efforts on both ends of the court, giving Dallas a crucial edge as they aim to contend in the crowded West. However, they need to minimize unnecessary losses including what happened Thursday night against the Rockets.
8. Orlando Magic - (3-2)
20th PPG (112.2), 6th OPPG (107.8)
The Magic’s defense is taking center stage, with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope leading the charge. While he’s not lighting up the scoreboard, Caldwell-Pope’s experience has brought a defensive intensity Orlando needed, helping them maintain a 3-1 start. However, Paolo Banchero is likely out indefinitely with a torn oblique and that will greatly hinder Orlando’s chances to hold onto a top-five seed this season so they might fall from the rankings soon.
9. Houston Rockets - (3-2)
22nd PPG (111.2), 3rd OPPG (107.0)
They have managed a decent start to the season but the Rockets’ youth and inexperience are evident. His steady presence is a positive, yet their defense needs significant work. Coach Ime Udoka’s second full season is bound to be challenging, and the young Rockets are in a learning phase that will take time. However, they are looking more competitive and need to keep up with winning big games to stay in playoff contention.
10. Chicago Bulls - (3-2)
16th PPG (113.4), 19th OPPG (116.2)
Despite their record, the Bulls show signs of promise with Christian Wood’s solid early contributions in the post. The real challenge lies in finding cohesion between Wood and the other key scorers. With improved offensive chemistry since Josh Giddey joined, the Bulls have the potential to surprise, but consistency will be key to making them relevant again someday.
11. Memphis Grizzlies - (3-3)
8th PPG (117.4), 27th OPPG (121.6)
Jay Huff’s emergence from undrafted underdog to key rotation piece is the latest example of the Grizzlies' developmental success. After earning a four-year contract, Huff is averaging 9.5 points and hitting 50% from 3-point range, bringing much-needed depth to the Grizzlies’ frontcourt. Memphis is deep and versatile around Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr, and Desmond Bane, a scary combination as the season progresses.
12. Minnesota Timberwolves - (2-2)
21st PPG (111.5), 13th OPPG (111.5)
Pairing Julius Randle with Anthony Edwards has shown great promise, with Randle dropping 33 points against Sacramento. This dynamic duo’s synergy has already made history in Minnesota with the Timberwolves, a great sign as they adapt to life without Karl-Anthony Towns. Building chemistry will be critical if they want to rise further in the rankings and keep pace with the top teams.
13. New York Knicks - (2-2)
18th PPG (113.0), 14th OPPG (111.8)
The Knicks are still searching for chemistry from their new players Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, who are working through growing pains as New York’s new headliners. Based on the expectations this season, it’s clear the Knicks need their stars to gel quickly. New York has the tools for a deep playoff run, but the journey hinges on teamwork and how quickly Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Tom Thibodeau can get everyone on the same page. Their opening night performance against the Boston Celtics wasn’t exactly the best start to the new season either.
14. Denver Nuggets - (2-2)
12th PPG (115.5), 22nd OPPG (118.8)
Russell Westbrook’s rocky start shooting-wise hasn’t dampened his intensity, as he continues to make his mark with energy and hustle. It’s clear, though, that the Nuggets need time to adjust to their new rotation with Christian Braun stepping into a larger role. Westbrook’s ability to drive the pace will be key as Denver looks to find their rhythm and claw back to elite form. However, it will be up to Jamal Murray who needs to start playing in playoff form early since the Nuggets trusted rotation is getting smaller by the year.
15. Sacramento Kings - (2-2)
9th PPG (116.5), 10th OPPG (110.5)
The Kings' high expectations have met with early struggles. The team’s defensive lapses have been evident, despite Chris Duarte’s hustle and energy. No doubt, the Kings’ star players (De’Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan) will need to pick up the pace on both ends to reverse the early-season slide. Head coach Mike Brown is focusing on better synergy to help the Kings contend in a challenging West.
16. Miami Heat - (2-2)
27th PPG (106.0), 7th OPPG (109.0)
The Heat’s early-season stumbles are concerning, with their renowned defense looking vulnerable. Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo might not have any more juice left to carry an 82-game season with title expectations and the Heat might need to make a trade to become major contenders. The Heat have struggled this season, but with Erik Spoelstra’s coaching, they’re in good hands for a turnaround.
17. Charlotte Hornets - (2-2)
4th PPG (118.5), 25th OPPG (119.2)
The Hornets are off to a rough start, with LaMelo Ball yet to find his rhythm fully. Second-year player Brandon Miller hasn't started his season due to an early injury, but Charlotte’s defense is an issue. They’ll need Ball’s playmaking and consistency to improve if they want to turn things around quickly, as another losing season looms without it.
18. Washington Wizards - (2-2)
5th PPG (118.0), 30th OPPG (124.0)
Kyle Kuzma is a nice talent, but the Washington Wizards' inconsistency has hurt them. Avdija’s defensive versatility and emerging scoring ability are promising, yet the Wizards’ overall team defense must improve. Head coach Brian Keefe is emphasizing better rotations, which will be necessary to keep games competitive otherwise the Wizards will rapidly fall in the standings again.
19. Indiana Pacers - (2-3)
13th PPG (115.4), 26th OPPG (120.2)
The Pacers are off to a mixed start, but we expect Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam to lead the way once the first few months of the season go by. Their scoring ability adds a strong offensive option when their plays break down, and his development will be exciting to watch as he gets comfortable in Rick Carlisle’s system. Indiana’s ability to integrate everyone on offense effectively may determine if they can remain competitive in the East throughout the season.
20. Los Angeles Clippers - (2-3)
23rd PPG (109.8), 5th OPPG (107.5)
The Clippers have had a quite difficult start to the season, plagued by injuries and inconsistency. James Harden has shouldered the load, but the lack of depth and continuity has kept L.A. from taking off. We aren’t expecting anything different considering Kawhi Leonard’s inability to stay healthy. However, head coach Ty Lue is experimenting with lineups and he always finds a way to get the team clicking to remain in playoff contention.
21. Atlanta Hawks - (2-3)
7th PPG (117.6), 28th OPPG (123.6)
The Hawks' season hinges on the development of rookie Zaccharie Risacher, who’s been a breath of fresh air. With impressive shooting efficiency, he’s complementing Trae Young and adding depth to Atlanta’s rotation. The Hawks’ early wins showcase his potential impact, but as they look to climb in the standings, they’ll need their defensive intensity.
22. New Orleans Pelicans - (2-3)
28th PPG (105.2), 16th OPPG (113.4)
The Pelicans’ offense has struggled without Brandon Ingram and with Zion Williamson adapting to new teammates but things have taken another turn with Dejounte Murray out for a few weeks following surgery on a fractured left hand. New Orleans needs their stars healthy to climb back into contention and that has been their issue over the past few seasons. Health will remain a crucial factor as they aim to make a strong push after a tough start.
23. Brooklyn Nets - (2-3)
6th PPG (118.0), 20th OPPG (117.6)
The Nets are betting on the talented Cam Thomas to lead their core, but early returns suggest there’s a steep learning curve. Brooklyn’s veterans including Cam Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith will need to lead the way if they want to avoid slipping further. Development remains the priority, but winning is on the radar if they find the right balance or possibly the right superstar.
24. San Antonio Spurs - (2-3)
29th PPG (103.0), 8th OPPG (109.2)
Victor Wembanyama has been the main attraction, showcasing the skills that made him the top pick. His shot-blocking and versatile scoring provide hope, even as the Spurs adjust around him. San Antonio’s patience with their young roster will be key to fostering long-term success, but Wembanyama’s performances have been a silver lining.
25. Portland Trail Blazers - (2-3)
25th PPG (107.2), 15th OPPG (112.8)
Scoot Henderson is gaining confidence, showing why Portland is optimistic about their future. His court vision and scoring instinct have translated well, though the Trail Blazers are still adjusting to life without Damian Lillard and haven’t matured into year two of the rebuild. A young core will mean ups and downs, but the early signs are promising for Portland’s rebuild.
26. Philadelphia 76ers - (1-3)
24th PPG (107.2), 18th OPPG (114.5)
Luckily, with Embiid’s injury woes persisting, Andre Drummond’s double-double output has been an anchor for the 76ers, keeping them afloat until their MVP returns. His presence on the boards will be critical if the Sixers want to maintain playoff positioning early in the season because we still haven’t seen enough from Paul George (surprise?) and Tyrese Maxey is having to handle quite a heavy load. It hasn’t been the best start from Philly but we expect them to turn it around very quickly.
27. Milwaukee Bucks - (1-4)
14th PPG (114.0), 23rd OPPG (119.0)
The Milwaukee Bucks could be in major trouble if they don’t turn things around. Giannis Anteokounmpo might not be too happy with the way things are going, especially with Damian Lillard not making a difference for the team since his arrival. This team’s championship window could be closing and they might need to make a move to get their season back on track or else Giannis could be mulling his future.
28. Toronto Raptors - (1-4)
10th PPG (116.0), 29th OPPG (124.0)
Toronto’s investment in youth is showing, with Scottie Barnes leading in the frontcourt. His all-around play and defense provide a reliable foundation, giving the Raptors an edge against any opponent. However, their offensive struggles persist, and finding a consistent rhythm on that end will be essential if they hope to climb the ranks and be more than just defensive spoilers.
29. Detroit Pistons - (1-4)
26th PPG (106.2), 11th OPPG (110.6)
The Pistons are banking on Cade Cunningham to carry them, and he’s off to a respectable start, but Detroit’s young roster has shown typical growing pains. Cunningham’s leadership is critical as they navigate a rebuild, and while wins may be scarce, his development provides hope for Detroit’s future competitiveness.
30. Utah Jazz - (0-5)
30th PPG (102.0), 24th OPPG (119.0)
Utah’s new-look roster is still finding its identity, with Lauri Markkanen continuing as a focal point. His scoring and defensive tenacity are bright spots, but the Jazz have yet to find consistency. Coach Will Hardy is working to integrate a host of fresh faces, and the Jazz are hopeful for a mid-season turnaround because they have performed very poorly in a loaded Western Conference.
