With a few weeks of the 2025-26 NBA season behind us, early trends are taking shape. Some teams are surpassing expectations, while others are flirting with trouble before Thanksgiving. These NBA power rankings are based purely on on-court performance across key efficiency metrics, showing who’s thriving, who’s stumbling, and who’s still finding their footing.
1) Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder have started the season looking like the NBA’s most complete team, showing impressive efficiency and maturity. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, they have outscored their opponents by 13.5 points per game, according to Basketball Reference, and have demonstrated strong play on both ends of the floor.
Despite missing Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren at times, the Thunder have a 9-1 record. Their only loss was by two points in Portland. This team looks built for long-term success, not just a quick start.
Ajay Mitchell has been a pleasant surprise, adding even more depth to the Thunder’s lineup. The second-year guard is averaging 16.8 points in 27.6 minutes while stepping in for injured players. Holmgren’s bigger scoring role and Aaron Wiggins’ flexibility show how strong this roster is. The Thunder seem ready to compete at the top of the NBA for years.
2) Cleveland Cavaliers
Even with essential players out, the Cleveland Cavaliers have started the season 7-3, led by Donovan Mitchell’s impressive scoring and late-game heroics. Mitchell is averaging 30.7 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.3 three-pointers per game, shooting 53.4% overall and 44.3% from three-point range, including a standout 46-point performance against Philadelphia.
As Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen return to the lineup, Cleveland’s offense has stayed lively, and the team continues to compete well in close games.
Rookie Jaylon Tyson has stepped up as a starter while Garland was out, giving Cleveland a boost on both offense and defense. The team’s defense isn’t as strong as it was in previous years, but its solid half-court play and deep bench show promise. As their full complement of players returns to health, the Cavs could reach an even higher level this season.
3) New York Knicks
The Knicks are starting to find their groove with new head coach Mike Brown. After a rough beginning, they’ve won three in a row, and their offense looks much better. They gave Chicago its first loss, dominated Washington, and scored 137 points against Minnesota, with six players reaching double figures.
During this winning streak, New York has averaged 128.0 points per game, moving the ball effectively and hitting a high percentage of corner threes. Brown’s system is starting to work, even though Karl-Anthony Towns is still getting comfortable.
New York is still one of the most well-rounded teams in the East, capable of playing tough and efficient basketball on both offense and defense. They’ve struggled to defend the 3-point line, but their balanced scoring and ability to outlast opponents have kept them in games. The Knicks may not be flashy, but they’re tough, patient, and getting more dangerous as they adjust to their new system.
4) Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokić is at a point in his career where his greatness seems almost normal. The three-time MVP is quietly putting up 25.2 points, 13.0 rebounds, 11.9 assists, and 1.9 steals per game.
The Nuggets are 7-2 with a top-five offense and defense, even as Jamal Murray is hot and cold, Cameron Johnson battles a shooting slump and shoulder inflammation, and Christian Braun is trying to get back to his 2024 level. Somehow, Jokić just keeps making it all look effortless.
Denver’s offense is still one of the best in the league, thanks to Jokić’s unselfish play and Tim Hardaway Jr.’s shooting off the bench. The team can be unpredictable when Jokić sits, but their poise and half-court execution set them apart from most contenders. They might seem like they are taking it easy now, but that’s what makes them so dangerous in the playoffs.
5) Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets started the season 0-2 but have now won five of their last six games and appear to be genuine contenders. They have the league’s second-best offense and a top-10 defense, built on their size, athleticism, and teamwork. Even if Kevin Durant isn’t at his best, Houston keeps finding ways to win because of their deep and balanced roster. Amen Thompson and Alperen Şengün have both been outstanding.
With Durant, Şengün, and Thompson leading the charge, Houston averaged 122.9 points through its first eight games. Jabari Smith Jr. continues to thrive as a versatile scorer, while Durant’s presence makes everyone around him better. The Rockets’ offense looks unstoppable, and their collective energy on defense is just as impressive.
6) Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers have surprised many this season, even though LeBron James hasn’t played and Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves have missed time. They’re 7-3 and have won five of their last six games. Dončić is averaging an impressive 37 points per game, and Reaves is putting up numbers close to superstar level.
Deandre Ayton’s efficient scoring and Reaves’ potent offense, combined with LaRavia and Smart’s defense, have powered the team. This balance has helped Los Angeles compete for the top spot in the West, despite their average defense.
With James yet to debut, the Lakers have demonstrated that they can win with improved shot creation and enhanced team defense. Their potent offense and supporting cast have masked their defensive vulnerabilities, enabling them to dominate key stretches and maintain consistent success. Once James returns and they define his role, the Lakers’ championship ceiling becomes clear, making them one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
7) Minnesota Timberwolves
The Minnesota Timberwolves have added Terrence Shannon Jr. to their main rotation to replace Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Shannon is playing more minutes, but he is still struggling on offense, making only 32.1% of his shots.
The Wolves have started the season 5-4, but most of their wins have come against weaker teams. This is partly because Anthony Edwards has missed half of the games.
Minnesota’s defense has been a concern, even with strong defenders like Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels. Their defense is not as strong as it used to be, and opponents are scoring easily. On offense, the team depends a lot on Edwards and Julius Randle. If the defense does not improve, the Timberwolves may only be borderline playoff contenders, rather than real threats.
8) San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs cooled off after their 5-0 start with two losses, but they have started winning again. They are still one of the NBA’s most exciting young teams.
Victor Wembanyama continues to flash legitimate MVP and Defensive Player of the Year potential. Reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle and rookie guard Dylan Harper have brought energy and shot creation to the backcourt, though Harper’s calf strain will sideline him for multiple weeks. When De’Aaron Fox returns, this group could quickly regain its early momentum.
Despite their recent slump, San Antonio has clearly made progress. The defense is improving faster than expected, the offense is coming together, and Wembanyama makes every game a must-watch. Harper’s injury might slow things down, but the Spurs seem more focused and united than last year. If they stay healthy, finishing in the top six is still possible.
9) Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons have surged to a 7-2 record, riding a five-game winning streak that showcases their maturity and physicality. Jalen Duren has emerged as a dynamic rim-runner, averaging 19.2 points and 11.3 rebounds, while Cade Cunningham leads a disciplined defense ranked third in the league.
Detroit dominates the paint with Cunningham’s aggressive drives and strong offensive rebounding, making them tough to beat when the Duren-Cunningham two-man game clicks.
Despite their defensive prowess, the Pistons struggle with spacing and 3-point shooting, ranking near the bottom in attempts per game. Duncan Robinson has stepped up, shooting 39.3% on over six 3-point attempts per game, but greater assertiveness is needed to open the floor for Cunningham and rising star Ausar Thompson.
10) Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks are riding the strong play of Giannis Antetokounmpo, whose offensive dominance has kept them competitive despite defensive lapses. Their defense struggles at key moments, often allowing open 3-pointers and easy drives, which limits their ceiling. Still, the Bucks are 6-3 with a balanced attack fueled by Antetokounmpo and efficient shooters like Ryan Rollins and A.J. Green, who have been critical in stretching the floor.
Myles Turner’s move to Milwaukee has added defensive stability, though his offensive production is modest early on. The Bucks’ model of relying heavily on Giannis and sharpshooters makes them a top contender in the regular season. However, their success depends on consistent perimeter shooting, as cold nights from deep could be challenging to overcome in the playoffs.
11) Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic are playing tough defense in a wide-open Eastern Conference, but they haven’t lived up to expectations. Their physical style often bothers opponents, but teams with better shooting tend to beat them. Orlando relies a lot on Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner for points, but the team still can’t find a steady offensive rhythm, which has made them one of the season’s biggest disappointments.
The Magic traded a lot to get Desmond Bane, hoping he would help fix their shooting problems. So far, Bane is making only 30.0% of his three-point shots, and Banchero is shooting just 25.0%. These early struggles led to a slow start, including Bane’s emotional ejection during a loss to Atlanta.
The Magic remain optimistic that once chemistry develops, Bane’s spacing and veteran leadership will help Banchero and Wagner thrive, and their shooting will improve dramatically.
12) Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers had a strong 4-0 start but have stumbled with a recent 2-3 stretch, partly because Joel Embiid struggled with a minutes restriction. Embiid’s production has dipped, showing the challenge of maintaining impact while limited. Still, the Sixers perform better when Embiid rests, suggesting that preserving his strength for critical moments could be key.
Philadelphia’s offense remains one of the league’s most explosive, averaging 124.0 points per game, thanks to elite guard play and efficient shooting from stars like Tyrese Maxey and rookie V.J. Edgecombe.
Edgecombe, averaging 16.9 points and shooting 36.0% from deep, has been a standout rookie, strengthening an attack that thrives in fast-paced, high-scoring games. While their defense needs work, the Sixers’ positive point differential and depth make them a formidable threat, especially if Paul George returns healthy.
13) Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors have shown improvement over last season, with more profound and consistent contributions from their young players. Their offense remains fluid and creative, led by Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. However, defensive consistency remains a problem, fluctuating from one night to the next.
Despite uneven stretches, the Warriors are sitting at .500 and remain a threat for a top-five seed as long as their stars stay healthy.
Recent struggles include losses to undermanned teams and injuries, with Curry, Butler, and Green all missing games. The young core, highlighted by Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, has shown promising development. Al Horford has had moments but limited availability. Maintaining health and balance will be key for their postseason hopes.
14) Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks have stayed afloat with a fast-paced offense and scoring depth, but their defense still holds them back from true Eastern Conference contention. Even with Trae Young sidelined by a sprained MCL, Atlanta has managed to stay competitive, but their style often leads to high-scoring shootouts. This approach feels unsustainable without stronger defensive discipline.
With Young likely out for several weeks, Kristaps Porziņģis has stepped up, averaging 17.6 points and providing interior scoring and rebounding. Quin Snyder is experimenting with more team-oriented ball movement to offset Young’s absence, giving Atlanta a chance to survive his sidelining. The potential is clear, but sustained success depends on healthy stars and improved defense to balance the attack.
15) Los Angeles Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers entered the season with expectations of being contenders, but have struggled to find consistency, especially with Kawhi Leonard sidelined by an ankle injury. Despite their talent, the team looks aged and outpaced in recent losses to younger squads like Miami, Oklahoma City, and Phoenix.
Their offense thrives when James Harden handles the ball, but too often it falls into stagnant isolation-heavy stretches. Defensively, the Clippers show physicality but lack the agility to keep up, resulting in shaky play on both ends.
One bright spot is John Collins, who has stepped up as the sixth man, leading the bench in scoring and rebounds while adding a steal per game. Collins is shooting 56.6% from the floor, providing a needed spark amid underwhelming performances from newcomers Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and Chris Paul. Until the Clippers can string together wins and stay healthy, their contender status remains tenuous at best.
16) Miami Heat
The Miami Heat are thriving with one of the league’s most explosive offenses, led by versatile scorers like Norman Powell and Jaime Jaquez Jr. Their up-tempo run-and-gun style, emphasizing one-on-one drives and kickouts rather than pick-and-rolls, has boosted Powell’s shooting to an impressive 46.2% from deep and helped the team stay competitive despite Tyler Herro’s absence.
However, inconsistent defensive effort and recent injuries, including Bam Adebayo’s foot issue, challenge their momentum. While the defense ranks in the top 10, the Heat have struggled against strong guard play and rely heavily on maintaining an offensive rhythm.
If Herro and Adebayo return healthy, Miami has the talent and pace to make a run toward the postseason. Powell’s scoring surge in Herro’s absence shows the team’s depth and adaptability, making them a dark-horse threat if their defense tightens up as the season progresses.
17) Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers have surged to a promising 5-4 start, punctuated by dramatic comeback victories against powerhouse teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets.
The team’s youth, grit, and athleticism stand out. Deni Avdija has emerged as a star, averaging 25.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. The offense is electric, fueled by balanced scoring, strong spacing, and contributions from veterans like Jrue Holiday.
Holiday has made a substantial impact on the Blazers, averaging 17.2 points and a career-high 8.3 assists while anchoring a defense that leads the league in forcing turnovers. Though Scoot Henderson remains sidelined, Portland’s defense ranks in the top 10, bolstered by players like Donovan Clingan and Toumani Camara.
18) Toronto Raptors
The Toronto Raptors have built their offense on pace, spacing, and exploiting mismatches, keeping them competitive in nearly every game. However, they haven’t defined a true go-to player in clutch moments. Still, the dynamic trio of Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, and RJ Barrett is starting to provide balance and scoring punch, each averaging around or over 20.0 points with efficient shooting.
Ingram, a midseason acquisition who didn’t play for the Raptors last year, has emerged as a key scorer thanks to his improved midrange shooting. The Raptors have a top-15 offense and the talent to score with opponents on most nights. If this trio can click more consistently, Toronto could build on its current momentum and become a serious threat in the East.
19) Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls have started the season unexpectedly strong, riding impressive offensive performances led by Josh Giddey and Nikola Vučević. The team features a balanced attack on both ends and relentless ball movement. Giddey is making a strong early case for an All-Star nod, averaging 21.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 9.3 assists while shooting nearly 39% from three.
Chicago added defensive specialist Isaac Okoro to stabilize their identity, and the Bulls have performed well defensively, even with Okoro struggling. Their resilience showed in a comeback against the 76ers, erasing a 24-point deficit to win at the buzzer. While not yet a title favorite, the Bulls are firmly in the conversation for a top-six finish in the East if they sustain this energy.
20) Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics have been navigating a tough start without Jayson Tatum, leaning on offseason additions like Josh Minott, who has earned a starting role by energizing the team defensively and on the glass.
Despite a 4-6 record and a convincing loss to the Rockets, Boston’s positive net rating comes from blowout wins over struggling teams like the Pelicans and Wizards. Jaylen Brown has stepped up, averaging 28.1 points and keeping the Celtics competitive.
Their offense relies on 3-point shooting, but with Tatum sidelined, efficiency has dipped to 32.2%, near the bottom of the league. Boston’s defense remains solid, and its positive point differential suggests it may be better than its record. Maintaining defensive consistency and improving shooting will be key for the Celtics to stabilize and compete until Tatum returns.
21) Memphis Grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies have started the season poorly, going 1-4 in a week marked by Ja Morant’s suspension and inconsistent play. Morant’s shooting is alarmingly low, at 37.9% from the field and 12.8% from three-point range, which hurts the team’s performance. Despite Jaren Jackson Jr.’s return, the Grizzlies are 4-6 and struggling on both ends. They lack the cohesion and defense needed to compete at a high level.
Rookie Cedric Coward has been a rare bright spot, using his athleticism and shooting to make an impact. He ranks third in team scoring and connects on over 43.6% from deep. With Morant’s dissatisfaction and unstable production, a rebuild might be inevitable to reset the franchise. Memphis looks lost and lacks the competitiveness to challenge in a tough Western Conference.
22) Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns continue to rely on Devin Booker’s elite scoring to fuel their offense, but their defense remains a glaring weakness. They struggle with transition defense, staying connected on screens, and falter when their shooting cools. The roster lacks support around Booker, and the team was missing Jalen Green, who recently returned from injury.
Green’s return, highlighted in a recent win over the Clippers, where he and Booker combined for 53 points, offers a spark for Phoenix. Unfortunately, Green suffered another setback and will miss more time.
Veterans like Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale provide grit and effort, while Dillon Brooks has been solid when on the floor. Although contention seems distant, the Suns have enough talent when healthy to remain competitive and potentially secure a play-in spot.
23) Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings continue to struggle with defensive consistency, especially protecting the paint and securing rebounds, despite their high offensive potential.
Their lineup, featuring Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Domantas Sabonis, has struggled to adapt in the modern NBA, with limited playmaking and poor shooting efficiency hampering them. At 3-6 with bottom-10 marks on offense and defense, they have yet to find the right balance.
Russell Westbrook, now 37, has been a surprising energizer for the team, contributing a net rating boost and notable performances, including a triple-double. His arrival has added much-needed toughness. While questions remain about roster construction and defensive versatility, the team has enough talent to stay competitive around the play-in zone.
24) Charlotte Hornets
The Charlotte Hornets boast a top-12 offense, led by LaMelo Ball, who keeps the team competitive despite struggles with shooting efficiency and occasional defensive lapses. Rookie Kon Knueppel has emerged as a bright spot, averaging 16.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, while shooting over 40% from three on high volume. Knueppel’s steady playmaking and shooting ease pressure on Ball and offer optimism for Charlotte’s future.
Defensively, the Hornets remain vulnerable, particularly against larger lineups and on second-chance points, resulting in frequent high-scoring defeats. The team’s reliance on individual scoring bursts over structured offense causes inconsistency. While rookies like Knueppel, Sion James, and Ryan Kalkbrenner see significant minutes and show promise, Charlotte risks slipping in the standings if defensive issues are not addressed.
25) Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks’ season has been challenging, with injuries to Anthony Davis and the absence of Kyrie Irving highlighting the struggles that followed the Luka Dončić trade. Their offense has lost explosiveness, ranking near the bottom in scoring and efficiency. The defense is respectable but not strong enough to compensate.
No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg, thrust into the point guard role despite playing forward in college, is facing steep growing pains, averaging 13.9 points, 2.8 assists, and shooting around 40% from the field.
Flagg’s adjustment to the NBA and increased responsibilities have been tough, but the Mavericks remain optimistic about his mental toughness and long-term potential. Dallas ranks fourth in defensive rating, yet the team sits at 3-7. With a low-possession style that magnifies mistakes, the Mavericks face an uphill battle from the start.
26) New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans are struggling early in the season with an inefficient offense and porous defense. Veteran guard Jordan Poole has lost his starting spot after uneven performances, while rookie point guard Jeremiah Fears shows promise despite inconsistency.
Frequent injuries to Zion Williamson worsen the team’s offensive issues, and their defense cannot contain opponents off the dribble or on the boards.
In their recent three-game stretch, Derik Queen has emerged as an encouraging presence, averaging 12.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.7 assists in limited minutes. However, the Pelicans likely face a lottery spot and need a rebuild focused on young players like Queen and Fears to find future success.
27) Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers are proving to be the toughest bad team in the league, fighting hard despite missing key players like Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner, who left in free agency.
Though their offense has suffered without Haliburton’s playmaking, the team competes fiercely for stretches, and their resilience makes them a difficult matchup. Their young core holds promise, but inexperience is showing, making this a challenging season.
With a growing injury list that includes Bennedict Mathurin and Andrew Nembhard, the Pacers face a tough road ahead until their complete rotations return. Backup center Jay Huff shows defensive potential with 4.4 blocks per 36 minutes, but struggles offensively, shooting under 37% from the field so far. Despite the setbacks, Indiana’s fight and the weaker Eastern Conference might allow them to sneak into the play-in with a low win total.
28) Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz are powered by Lauri Markkanen’s impressive 28.3 points per game. Third-year guard Keyonte George is also emerging as a key figure, averaging 22.1 points and 7.2 assists while solidifying his role in the offense. It is still uncertain if Utah has found a future star from recent drafts, but George shows promise as a long-term rotation piece, which is vital for a rebuilding team.
Defensively, the Jazz struggle with consistency, often giving up high-quality shots because of late rotations and communication issues. Their offense is balanced but lacks the explosiveness to compete with elite scoring teams beyond Markkanen’s efforts. Injuries like Walker Kessler’s have made tanking easier, but the front office remains hopeful about rookie Ace Bailey’s development despite his slow start.
29) Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets struggle with a lack of playmaking, relying on scorers Cam Thomas and Michael Porter Jr., which is not enough to sustain an effective offense. The team feels disjointed because of inexperience across the roster. Close games are challenging, and the season outlook is bleak with a near-bottom finish expected.
Porter Jr. has had strong scoring games, but the offense suffers when it lacks quality shot creation. The Nets’ five first-round picks from 2025 have mostly failed to make an impact, with several stuck in the G League or sidelined by injury. This raises concerns about the team’s future depth and talent development.
The diminished quality of looks for their leading scorers, combined with early coaching struggles to motivate the team, paints a grim picture for Brooklyn’s season trajectory.
30) Washington Wizards
The rebuilding Washington Wizards have struggled this season, posting the worst net rating in the league and giving up over 128 points per game. With nine players on rookie contracts, the team’s focus is on development over wins. Rookie Tre Johnson has shown promise as a floor-spacer, hitting 2.0 threes per game on 37.0% shooting, though his playmaking needs improvement.
Second-year big man Alexandre Sarr is the team’s most encouraging player, averaging 18.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.5 blocks while shooting nearly 35% from deep: Sarr’s two 30-point games and ability to stretch the floor signal star potential.
Despite these bright spots and the stabilizing presence of veterans like C.J. McCollum and Khris Middleton, the Wizards remain far from consistent competitiveness, enduring a season focused on growth and tanking.
