Now that the 2025-26 NBA season is well underway, we’re starting to see some clear trends across the league. A few teams have surprised with strong starts, while others are still trying to get into a groove as Thanksgiving gets closer. In these NBA power rankings, we take into account key efficiency stats to show which teams are standing out, which ones are struggling, and who is still working on building team chemistry.
Here’s how all 30 teams stack up right now.
1) Oklahoma City Thunder
Last Week’s Ranking: 1
The Oklahoma City Thunder look like the NBA’s most complete team through the opening stretch, racing out to a 13-1 start. Their only loss came by two points on the second night of a back-to-back, and even that required a big comeback by Portland. This surge is even more impressive because they’ve done it with Jalen Williams sidelined and several rotation pieces, including Chet Holmgren and Lu Dort, missing time.
At the center of it all is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who’s been a model of consistency and efficiency. The reigning scoring champion is averaging 32.6 points per game (3rd in the NBA) and has dropped 30 points in 12 of his first 14 outings, according to Basketball Reference. With Williams’ return on the horizon and their defense already ranking near the top of the league, Oklahoma City’s balance and star power make them the unquestioned team to beat.
2) Houston Rockets
Last Week’s Ranking: 5
The Houston Rockets have surged into the Western Conference’s upper tier, thanks to the league’s most efficient offense and a strong presence on the glass. They dominate with size and rebounding, while quietly leading the NBA in 3-point percentage. Lacking a true point guard hasn’t slowed their attack, and recent wins over contenders show how dangerous they can be on any night.
This young group has won eight of its last nine after an 0-2 start, showing an elite combination of energy and execution. Though their assist-to-turnover ratio suggests inexperience, the Rockets’ top-12 defense and the emergence of Reed Sheppard give them real staying power. If they clean up the ball movement, the Rockets could remain one of the West’s most potent threats well into the season.
3) New York Knicks
Last Week’s Ranking: 3
Madison Square Garden has been good to the Knicks, who haven’t lost at home during this long stretch. Their offense is coming together, with recent games seeing them score 137, 134, and 133 points. Josh Hart is quietly getting back to his usual self off the bench. The team has now won six of its last seven games, thanks to balanced scoring, despite still playing at one of the slowest paces in the league.
Although their recent opponents have struggled, the Knicks’ home dominance and forgiving early schedule position them to climb the ranks. Shooting has fluctuated for some key players, but solid defense and strong performances from Anunoby and Brunson have made up the difference. If this group sustains its level of play at home, New York should remain in the mix for the top spot in the East.
4) Denver Nuggets
Last Week’s Ranking: 4
The Denver Nuggets are backing up their championship pedigree with top-tier play on both sides of the ball, ranking in the top four for offensive and defensive efficiency. Nikola Jokic remains at the center of their attack, posting MVP-level numbers. Despite Cam Johnson’s early-season struggles, the starting group continues to win its minutes and stays locked in.
Denver’s recent seven-game win streak includes multiple statement victories. With Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon consistently scoring, the Nuggets’ potent offense will look even more dangerous when Johnson finds his touch. Jokic’s versatility and career-best playmaking keep Denver near the top of the NBA hierarchy.
5) Cleveland Cavaliers
Last Week’s Ranking: 2
The Cleveland Cavaliers are building momentum, winning six of their last eight and moving to 9-5. Donovan Mitchell is playing some of the best basketball of his career, and Darius Garland’s return has reignited the “Big Four” with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. In limited minutes together, that core has overwhelmed opponents and ranks among the league leaders in net rating.
Cleveland’s recent performance has them well-positioned for a lengthy run, especially with a seven-game homestand ahead. The offense now ranks among the NBA’s best, a surge that comes with a healthy lineup. With a light travel schedule until the holidays, the Cavs look primed to stake their claim as one of the East’s best through the New Year.
6) Minnesota Timberwolves
Last Week’s Ranking: 7
The Minnesota Timberwolves are having a strong November, winning six of their last eight games and now holding the NBA’s fourth-best offense (120.0 offensive rating). Anthony Edwards is back and has energized the team, while Julius Randle’s efficient scoring and Jaden McDaniels’ improved shooting have helped keep the Wolves on track.
Most of their recent wins have been against weaker teams, but Minnesota has a good chance to continue building momentum with an easier schedule ahead. The Timberwolves are winning by large margins, and their offense looks strong, even as they work on improving their defense. If their top players keep playing well, Minnesota could be among the league’s best teams by December.
7) Los Angeles Lakers
Last Week’s Ranking: 6
The Los Angeles Lakers have exceeded early expectations with a 10-4 start, even while navigating a tough stretch without LeBron James. Luka Dončić has fueled an unblemished record in clutch games, Marcus Smart has provided stability, and the offense ranks fifth in effective field goal percentage. Recent losses and a demanding road trip loom, but reinforcements, including James and Gabe Vincent, are nearly back.
While a five-game winning streak was snapped in Atlanta, the Lakers quickly bounced back to blow out Charlotte, and they’ve won eight of their last 10 to keep pace near the top of the West.
Dončić, Deandre Ayton, and Austin Reaves have played well in limited action, hinting at strong potential once the team is fully healthy. With key players returning and chemistry building, Los Angeles could emerge as a dangerous threat as the schedule unfolds.
8) Detroit Pistons
Last Week’s Ranking: 9
The Detroit Pistons have the NBA’s longest active winning streak at nine games, moving their record to 11-2 and putting them atop the Eastern Conference. The tandem of Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren has become a force.
Cunningham’s playmaking has led to an eye-popping week, while Duren has averaged 22.8 points and 13.6 rebounds during the streak. Their pick-and-roll is lethal, but upcoming tests loom as injuries hit key rotation players.
J.B. Bickerstaff’s revamped defense ranks among the league’s best, making Detroit’s progress feel sustainable. While recent wins have come against mostly struggling teams, the Pistons have handled business and appear to be a real postseason threat. If Cunningham’s MVP push and Duren’s dominance continue, Detroit could prove its hot start isn’t a fluke.
9) Orlando Magic
Last Week’s Ranking: 11
It’s been a disappointing start for the Orlando Magic, but there are encouraging signs. They continue to search for offensive consistency, with Paolo Banchero showing growth but still struggling from deep.
Jalen Suggs is having a breakout year defensively, but the team’s effectiveness drops sharply when he’s off the court. Orlando’s defense, once elite, has slipped from the standard set last season, but the unit has made progress week over week and remains key to any sustained success.
Desmond Bane’s buzzer-beater against Portland delivered a much-needed win, but his outside shooting needs to improve for the Magic to climb in the East. While Orlando’s defensive rating has returned to the top ten over their last five games, stabilizing their lineup and shooting will dictate how long they stay in the playoff mix.
10) San Antonio Spurs
Last Week’s Ranking: 8
The San Antonio Spurs hit a rough patch with back-to-back losses, but Victor Wembanyama bounced back fast. He scored 38 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, handed out five assists, and blocked five shots against Chicago. De’Aaron Fox’s return has also brought fresh energy and playmaking to the team.
Fox has fit right in, scoring more than 24 points in three of his first four games back and giving San Antonio another late-game weapon alongside Wembanyama. With an 8-4 record and a five-game homestand, the Spurs have a chance to build on their strong start if they keep navigating the constant adjustments coming Wembanyama’s way. The team’s mix of youth and rising star power makes them one of the most interesting teams to watch.
11) Atlanta Hawks
Last Week’s Ranking: 14
The Atlanta Hawks have stayed competitive despite key injuries, notching four straight wins without Trae Young. Recent road victories over the Lakers and Clippers highlighted Atlanta’s depth, with Jalen Johnson and role players like Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Vit Krejci stepping up.
Offensive struggles persist without Young, but the Hawks’ defense has looked more cohesive in his absence. Dyson Daniels continues to impress as a playmaker, and with more winnable games ahead, Atlanta’s supporting cast will need to keep rising to the occasion. The team’s 8-5 record and recent streak highlight their ability to keep pace in a crowded Eastern Conference.
12) Milwaukee Bucks
Last Week’s Ranking: 10
The Milwaukee Bucks have bounced back after every loss this season, avoiding back-to-back defeats. Giannis Antetokounmpo has led the team in points, rebounds, and assists, playing at an MVP level. Even during their recent 4-4 stretch, his impact remains unmatched. Offensively, Milwaukee is among the league’s top half, but its defense ranks in the bottom 10.
Ryan Rollins, the team’s second-leading scorer, has struggled with consistency, which means veterans like Kyle Kuzma, Gary Trent Jr., and Cole Anthony need to step up. The Bucks are looking to build a winning streak to stay near the top of the Eastern Conference. Antetokounmpo’s leadership and ability to deliver in key moments remain crucial for Milwaukee’s success.
13) Golden State Warriors
Last Week’s Ranking: 13
The Golden State Warriors hit a rough patch, taking a few on the chin but pulling off back-to-back victories over the Spurs, highlighting their up-and-down play. Stephen Curry’s return from injury wasn’t enough to spark a win against the Thunder, but he exploded for 40-plus points in each of the games against San Antonio.
Injuries and inconsistent output from younger players have this experienced team looking average at times. Still, bright spots remain, including rookie Will Richard, who has carved out a key stabilizing role and drawn praise from Steve Kerr. The next stretch will test how much upside remains as Golden State waits for its rotation to get right.
14) Los Angeles Clippers
Last Week’s Ranking: 15
The Los Angeles Clippers are in a challenging stretch, holding a 4-8 record with a tough schedule ahead against some of the league’s top teams. Six straight losses exposed vulnerabilities, especially with key players like Kawhi Leonard sidelined. Tyronn Lue notes the team’s struggles to keep up defensively with faster-paced squads, highlighting the challenges of being one of the league’s oldest teams.
The Clippers suffered another setback as Bradley Beal sustained a fractured hip that requires season-ending surgery. The veteran had struggled early in the season, but the team hoped to turn the tide as the season progressed. Still, LA got back in the win column after a double overtime thriller over the Mavericks, and the veteran core, when healthy, should be competitive.
15) Philadelphia 76ers
Last Week’s Ranking: 12
The Philadelphia 76ers have demonstrated resilience following recent tough losses, bouncing back with a narrow win over Boston despite the absence of Joel Embiid. Tyrese Maxey is carrying a heavy load, averaging 32.0 points per game and playing over 40 minutes a night, which leads the team.
Philadelphia has faced a challenging stretch against strong Eastern Conference opponents, and Nick Nurse’s squad dropped two games to Detroit.
Injuries continue to cast a cloud over the team, with Embiid and Paul George sidelined and uncertain return timelines. Jared McCain’s return offers some relief, potentially lightening Maxey’s minutes. The duo of Maxey and rookie V.J. Edgecombe has been key to the Sixers’ better-than-expected start, but the team will need healthy stars and improved defense to make a playoff push.
16) Toronto Raptors
Last Week’s Ranking: 18
The Toronto Raptors have bounced back from their tough 1-4 start, winning seven of their last eight games. They’ve taken advantage of playing against some short-handed teams, but their strong defense has helped them push the pace and score in transition. Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett are hitting shots from long range, and rookie Collin Murray-Boyles is already making a significant impact off the bench.
Still, Toronto’s starting unit remains a concern. When Barnes, Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Brandon Ingram share the floor, the Raptors have posted a negative net rating, indicating chemistry issues that need attention. The upcoming stretch, with games against Indiana, Charlotte, and Washington, offers a chance to keep the momentum going and sort out the rotations.
17) Miami Heat
Last Week’s Ranking: 16
The Miami Heat surged after a three-game win streak capped by a dramatic overtime victory over the Cavaliers, despite losing to the same Cleveland squad the next game. They also dropped one to the Knicks the following game. Still, no team is playing at a faster pace than Miami, which ranks second in the league in points per game, fueled by a relentless transition attack and an up-tempo, high-possession style.
Norman Powell and Simone Fontecchio are firing from deep, giving the offense firepower, while Andrew Wiggins and Jaime Jaquez continue to shine on both ends. Even with injuries to key players, the Heat are finding ways to win, showing resilience through strong team defense and an offense that can score with anyone.
18) Boston Celtics
Last Week’s Ranking: 20
Even without Jayson Tatum and the departures of Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Al Horford, the Boston Celtics keep leaning into a 3-point-heavy identity. They rank near the top of the league in attempts but continue to struggle with consistency, shooting under 34% from deep.
Despite the roster turnover and injuries, Boston remains competitive and has recently picked up much-needed wins over Orlando and Memphis, while pushing the 76ers to the brink.
Jaylen Brown has flourished as the unquestioned No. 1 option, averaging 27.0 points on career-best efficiency and torching defenses. He has carried an offense, still searching for balance. This upcoming stretch will test whether Boston can turn Brown’s brilliance into sustained team success.
19) Portland Trail Blazers
Last Week’s Ranking: 17
The Portland Trail Blazers have cooled off after a strong start, dropping four of their last six in a tough stretch with close finishes. They’ve already played in several clutch games this season, but what was once a top-five defense has slipped to the bottom-10 in those moments. Still, wins over Denver and Oklahoma City show this young team can hang with elite competition when its pressure defense clicks.
Portland nearly stole a pair of road wins but fell late to both Miami and Orlando despite strong efforts down the stretch. However, there’s plenty of young talent on this roster, and if the Trail Blazers can rediscover their defensive identity in crunch time, the Blazers could fight to remain in the early-season mix.
20) Phoenix Suns
Last Week’s Ranking: 22
The Suns are exceeding expectations under new head coach Jordan Ott, with Devin Booker leading a revitalized attack. Booker has been phenomenal, averaging 28.5 points per game on nearly 37% shooting from beyond the arc and adding 7.0 assists per game.
Even with Jalen Green’s recurring hamstring injury sidelining him for all but one full game, Phoenix has found ways to compete and has recently won seven of its past eight. Grayson Allen has stepped up as a crucial secondary scorer, contributing 18.5 points per game and stretching defenses.
Despite losing nine of their last ten to close last year, this Suns team is showing real resilience. The offense ranks among the league’s top ten and makes 16 3-pointers per game, though consistency in field-goal percentage (47.3%) and defense remains a challenge. If Booker stays hot and the bench keeps contributing, Phoenix has the formula to remain in the mix until Green returns.
21) Chicago Bulls
Last Week’s Ranking: 19
After a strong 6-1 start, the Chicago Bulls have stumbled, losing four straight games to Milwaukee, Cleveland, San Antonio, and Detroit. Each defeat followed the same script: Chicago played tight until the fourth quarter, then couldn’t contain opposing stars down the stretch. The team is now on a four-game road trip, looking to regain early-season form.
Josh Giddey’s ankle injury looms large, but when healthy, he has looked every bit the star Chicago envisioned, even notching back-to-back triple-doubles, something no Bulls player had done since Michael Jordan. His contract is starting to look like one of the best values in the league. Getting him back soon will be key if the Bulls want to halt their skid and stay in the East’s upper tier.
22) Memphis Grizzlies
Last Week’s Ranking: 21
The Memphis Grizzlies continue to struggle, dropping six of their last seven, mainly because Ja Morant is shooting just 35.9% from the field and under 17% from 3-point range. Jaren Jackson Jr. has also seen his scoring dip, adding to the team’s problems amid a tough road trip. Despite these setbacks, rookie Cedric Coward has been a bright spot, showing strong defense and recording two 20-point games and two double-doubles.
Coward may prove to be the steal of the Desmond Bane trade, averaging 14.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while connecting on over 37% of his threes. He’s filled the voids left by injuries to Scottie Pippen Jr. and Ty Jerome, exceeding expectations and giving fans hope for future growth. With numerous road tests ahead, the Grizzlies need Morant and Jackson to regain their form if they want to remain competitive.
23) Sacramento Kings
Last Week’s Ranking: 23
The Sacramento Kings are struggling at 3-10, with a bottom-five net rating and a defense that is often overwhelmed in blowout losses. Trade rumors are swirling, with the team reportedly shopping names like Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Domantas Sabonis, all with challenging contracts. Sabonis averages 17.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, but even healthy, he has been unable to change the team’s trajectory.
Injuries have depleted Sacramento’s roster, and fans voiced frustration during recent home defeats. There are small positives, such as Russell Westbrook’s spark and the hope that Keegan Murray will return soon from thumb surgery. Still, the Kings rank 29th in points allowed per game (124.5) and have a -11.1 net rating, a clear sign that the struggles run deep.
24) Charlotte Hornets
Last Week’s Ranking: 24
The Charlotte Hornets have struggled without their stars, dropping five of their last six games and falling to 4-9. With LaMelo Ball in and out of the lineup and Brandon Miller also out, Charlotte has leaned on its rookies, including standout Kon Knueppel, who’s averaged 17.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in this season.
Knueppel just missed a triple-double against the Lakers. Fellow rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner leads the team in steals per game.
The team’s lack of depth has been exposed, especially with three rookies starting. Miles Bridges has provided scoring at 22.1 points per game, but unless Ball and Miller can get on the floor together, the rough patch may continue with a tough schedule ahead. Still, if the young talent continues to develop, there is reason for optimism down the road.
25) Dallas Mavericks
Last Week’s Ranking: 25
The Dallas Mavericks are down bad, sitting at 3-10, reeling from general manager Nico Harrison’s firing, and struggling to find cohesion. Cooper Flagg has shown flashes of brilliance since moving off point guard, averaging 17.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.0 steals over his last four games, including a standout 26-point effort against the Bucks.
However, the roster’s lack of shooting (ranked 29th in 3-point percentage) continues to limit their offensive ceiling.
Dallas’ lack of perimeter threats puts more pressure on its inconsistent defense. Veteran Klay Thompson’s recent move to the bench signals the team’s ongoing search for the right lineup combinations. Flagg’s talent is undeniable, but he’ll need more support to help the Mavericks climb out of their early-season hole.
26) Utah Jazz
Last Week’s Ranking: 28
The Utah Jazz have started the season 4-8, struggling for consistency after Walker Kessler’s season-ending shoulder surgery. Jusuf Nurkic has taken over as the starting center but has struggled offensively, shooting 34.6% from the field and averaging 7.1 points in seven starts.
The loss of Kessler’s rim protection is clear. Despite these challenges, Utah’s offense showed promise in a 152-128 win over Indiana, led by Lauri Markkanen, Svi Mykhailiuk, and Kyle Filipowski.
Utah ranks in the bottom half of the league in scoring, averaging 116.3 points per game, but fifth in free-throw percentage (82.2%). However, their defense has allowed 121.8 points per game, putting them among the worst. The team’s success will depend on finding defensive stability without Kessler and receiving more consistent contributions from key players to overcome their slow start.
27) Indiana Pacers
Last Week’s Ranking: 27
The Indiana Pacers are off to a rough start at 1-12, with star guard Tyrese Haliburton out for the season, leaving the roster short-handed. Even though Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell have returned, Indiana still can’t find its rhythm.
The team lacks depth and is counting on young players like Jarace Walker, who is playing twice as many minutes this season, though his 3-point shooting has dropped. There aren’t many veterans, so hardship signings like Jeremiah Robinson-Earl have had to take on bigger roles.
The team has struggled on offense, scoring only 108.7 points per game and giving up 123.2 points, which puts them near the bottom of the league in both areas. The Pacers are clearly focused on developing young players, but unless they get healthy, it’s unlikely they’ll move up in the standings soon.
28) New Orleans Pelicans
Last Week’s Ranking: 26
The New Orleans Pelicans are navigating another injury-plagued season with Zion Williamson sidelined by a hamstring strain, missing six straight games. Before his injury, Williamson averaged 22.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game while shooting efficiently. Despite his absence, New Orleans has shown fight at times, but they remain at the bottom of the West with a minus-12.9 point differential, ranking 27th in the NBA.
The team’s struggles have opened the door for young talent like Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen to get meaningful minutes. Saddiq Bey has shown growth as he returns from ACL surgery, scoring in double figures over six straight games.
New Orleans ranks near the bottom offensively and defensively, highlighting the urgent need for a deeper rebuild or roster shakeup. With Williamson’s health progress a key factor, the Pelicans are in wait-and-see mode.
29) Brooklyn Nets
Last Week’s Ranking: 29
It’s been an awful start to the season for the Brooklyn Nets, who own a 1-11 record. The situation is bleak, with rookie guards Egor Demin and Ben Saraf running the show during a clear rebuild.
Cam Thomas is sidelined for multiple weeks with a hamstring strain, which further handicaps an offense ranked 24th. Thomas is one of the team’s primary scorers. Michael Porter Jr. has been the lone consistent offensive force, averaging 23.2 points and 7.7 rebounds, but the team lacks support.
Brooklyn’s offensive struggles are evident in their 108.9 points per game (30th in the NBA) and 24.0 assists per game, which place them near the bottom of the league. Defensively, the Nets allow 123.3 points per game, ranking 28th, which compounds their challenges. With limited talent and ongoing injuries, the Nets are headed for a lengthy rebuild as young players gain experience and the team searches for its next star.
30) Washington Wizards
Last Week’s Ranking: 30
The Washington Wizards have started the season 1-11 and are on a 10-game losing streak. They have competed hard in some close games, like their overtime loss to Detroit, where CJ McCollum scored 42 points.
McCollum is still the team’s main offensive player, but the Wizards are ranked near the bottom in both offense and defense. On a positive note, Alex Sarr is second in the league in blocks, just behind Victor Wembanyama, and is becoming a dependable shooter.
Injuries are still a problem for Washington, and Bilal Coulibaly has only been able to play limited minutes. This has allowed Kyshawn George to spend more time on the court. The Wizards are scoring just 113.5 points per game, while giving up 129.7 points per game, the most in the league. Due to these struggles, the team appears to be focused on developing its young players.
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