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We are now almost a week into the new year, and while it is flown by, we are quickly approaching the mid-point of the 2019-20 NBA season. At this stage of the season, we have had plenty of time to assess where teams are currently at, and here we will examine the latest Power Rankings heading into Week 12 of the season.
#10 Oklahoma City Thunder - Record: 20-15
Despite losing Paul George and Russell Westbrook in an offseason of change, the Oklahoma City Thunder have managed to stay in contention. After making an expectedly slow start to the season, Billy Donovan's team has lost just once in their past 10 games, and Saturday's win over the Cleveland Cavaliers marked a fifth consecutive win. At 20-15, the Thunder are gaining ground on the teams in front of them in the West, and they could be a threat come the postseason if they opt to keep their biggest stars past the trade deadline.
#9 Toronto Raptors - Record: 24-12
The Raptors struggled offensively in a narrow defeat to the Heat, although Toronto finished the week with a 2-1 record thanks to wins over the Cavaliers and Nets. Injuries remain a concern with Pascal Siakam and Marc Gasol still out, although this Toronto team will continue to battle and grind out wins.
#8 Denver Nuggets - Record: 24-11
Thanks to their late December surge, the Denver Nuggets remain second in the Western Conference standings, although Michael Malone's have endured a tough start to the new year. After being blown away by the James Harden inspired Rockets, the Nuggets picked up a win over the Pacers, although they suffered a humbling defeat on Saturday to the lowly Wizards. With games to come against the Mavericks and Clippers this week, the Nuggets still have plenty to prove.
#7 Utah Jazz - Record: 23-12
During the first six weeks of the season, the Utah Jazz appeared unlikely to challenge the NBA's best teams, although Quin Snyder's team has picked up the pace, winning five consecutive games. The streak has helped to improve Utah's record to 23-12, and with Donovan Mitchell leading the charge, the Jazz are heading in the right direction.
#6 Houston Rockets - Record: 24-11
The Houston Rockets continue to split opinion, although Mike D'Antoni's team made an excellent start to the year by picking up impressive wins over the Nuggets and 76ers. Both wins were comfortable, and while James Harden continues to put up historic numbers, the likes of Clint Capela and Eric Gordon have also made big contributions since returning.
#5 LA Clippers - Record: 26-12
The Clippers managed to recover from a woeful first quarter to defeat the Knicks on Sunday, although Doc Rivers' side is not resembling a team that was heavily backed as the favorites for the title heading into the season. The lack of defense has been especially concerning, although LA still sits 4th in the Wst with a 26-12 record, and things should improve in the coming weeks.
#4 Miami Heat - Record: 26-10
The Miami Heat didn't enjoy their best week of the campaign as they lost to Washington and Orlando, although they managed to bounce back with wins following both defeats. Jimmy Butler's performances have once again been instrumental, and Miami remains formidable on their court (17-1). However, they face a tough week with three road games and Erik Spoelstra will be eager to see Kendrick Nunn and Tyler Herro step up following some mixed performances.
#3 Boston Celtics - Record: 25-8
The Boston Celtics have won eight of their last 10 games to rise to second in the Eastern Conference standings, and will only get better after finally getting most of their roster back to full health. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown continue to take huge leaps following Kyrie Irving's exit, while Gordon Hayward is shooting the ball extremely well. Kemba Walker should also return this week, and the Celtics will be looking forward to their matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers this week.
#2 Los Angeles Lakers - Record: 29-7
The Lakers struggled during the final week of 2019, although Frank Vogel's team has regained form over the past seven days. The Lakers beat the Suns, Pelicans, and Pistons to improve to 29-7 for the season, and they have been especially impressive in the first half. Vogel's side faces tough tests against the Mavericks and Thunder this week, although they remain the dominant force in the West.
#1 Milwaukee Bucks - Record: 32-5
The Bucks have been excellent for much of the season, and they have made a perfect start to 2020. Wins over the Bulls, Timberwolves, and Spurs increased their league-best record to 32-5, and they face four winnable road games over the next seven days. Giannis Antetokounmpo also looked great following his return, and the Bucks show no signs of slowing down.
