NBA Power Rankings Week 7: Bucks replace Lakers at the top as the Mavericks continue to heat up
The 2019-20 NBA season has rolled into December and while a few teams already appear to be out of contention, much of the league is currently jostling for a playoff spot. With six weeks of basketball behind us, the frontrunners for the title are also emerging, and as we enter Week 7, here we are the latest power rankings.
#10 Miami Heat - Record: 14-5
The Miami Heat have continued to defy expectations, and Erik Spoelstra's team enter December among the Top 4 in the East. Tyler Herro, Kendrick Nunn, Goran Dragic, and Bam Adebayo have supported the excellent Jimmy Butler, although the Heat's credentials will be tested this week as they face Boston and Toronto.
#9 Houston Rockets - Record: 13-6
In James Harden, the Rockets have the NBA's most unstoppable offensive force. The 2018 MVP dropped 60 points in three quarters against the Hawks, while Russell Westbrook was excellent as the Rockets won both of their games in Week 6. However, doubts remain over the supporting cast and they face a tricky trip to Toronto this week.
#8 Boston Celtics - Record: 14-5
Kemba Walker quickly returned for the Celtics after suffering a scary neck injury, and Gordon Hayward is on the mend after fracturing his hand. The Celtics have yet to be beaten at TD Garden and their 14-5 start to the season is better than expected considering the offseason departures of Kyrie Irving and Al Horford.
#7 Philadelphia 76ers - Record: 14-6
Philadelphia's season has been slightly underwhelming, although the Sixers are just three games back from the Bucks, and Brett Brown's team has lost just one of their past eight games. Joel Embiid bounced backed quickly after failing to score a point against the Raptors, and the much-criticized Tobias Harris has also been solid.