NBA Power Rankings: Utah Jazz and Brooklyn Nets retain top spots as New York Knicks continue to impress

#3 LA Clippers

Los Angeles Clippers Kawhi Leonard

2020-21 record: 24-12

Upcoming fixtures: @BOS, @WAS

Previous NBA Power Ranking: 5th (↑2)

When the LA Clippers' offense is off the pace, it's really off the pace. Against the Memphis Grizzlies, Paul George and Kawhi Leonard combined for only 30 points. Meanwhile, on Sunday, their 4th-quarter misfiring paved the way for the Milwaukee Bucks' vital win.

Despite their two losses this week, the Clippers' offense still ranks second in the league, as proven by their blowout win against the Washington Wizards.

The LA Clippers will be looking at extending their current record, with two wins against two defenses that rank in the bottom half of the league.

#2 Brooklyn Nets

Brooklyn Nets star James Harden returns to Houston this week

2020-21 record: 22-13

Upcoming fixtures: @SAS, @HOU

Previous NBA Power Ranking: 2nd (-)

Kevin Durant's absence has not been a problem for the Brooklyn Nets, whose eight-game winning run came to an end on Saturday. Kyrie Irving has also been sidelined for the matchup with the Dallas Mavericks.

James Harden has played at an MVP-caliber level during this time, while Bruce Brown Jr. and Joe Harris have been electric for Steve Nash's side.

The Brooklyn Nets are one of the most feared sides in the league. Once they add greater height and defensive ability in the post, they will cement their position as favorites for the championship.

Who does @RealJayWilliams have leading the NBA MVP race?1. James Harden2. Joel Embiid3. #LeBronJames#BrooklynTogether | #HereTheyCome | #LakeShow pic.twitter.com/rGkjTt7Hva

— Keyshawn, JWill & Zubin (@KeyJayandZ) March 1, 2021

#1 Utah Jazz

Los Angeles Lakers v Utah Jazz

2020-21 record: 27-7

Upcoming fixtures: @NOP, @PHI

Previous NBA Power Ranking: 1st (-)

Still holding the league's best record, the Utah Jazz rank at the top of our NBA Power Rankings. The Jazz have been near flawless all season, only losing twice, to the LA Clippers and the Miami Heat.

The Utah Jazz are 8-2 in their last 10 matchups and pummelled the LA Lakers on Wednesday night.

Everything is clicking for Quin Snyder's side. Even beyond their starters, Joe Ingles and Jordan Clarkson are averaging double-figure points for the season, with Clarkson putting up 17.2 a night this week.

The Utah Jazz's matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers will be extremely intriguing this Wednesday. Clarkson bagged 40 points the last time these two sides met, though the 76ers were without Joel Embiid on the night.