As the 2024-25 NBA season progresses, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the Cleveland Cavaliers are staking their claim as one of the top teams in the league. With an undefeated 11-0 start, the Cavaliers have firmly established themselves at the top of the NBA power rankings. Their dominance is not just about wins but the way they’ve been winning — with a combination of offensive explosiveness, defensive stability, and emerging stars ready to carry them deep into the season.
But while the Cleveland Cavaliers dominate early in the NBA Power Rankings, the competition is fierce, with teams like the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors right on their heels. The Cavaliers’ early-season success has many wondering if they can sustain this level of play or if the Celtics, Warriors, and other contenders will soon rise to challenge them.
#10 – LA Lakers (6-4)
The Los Angeles Lakers, under first-year coach JJ Redick, have shown moments of brilliance mixed with inconsistency. With a 6-4 record, the Lakers are sitting just outside the playoff spots in the Western Conference. LeBron James, the oldest player in NBA history to record consecutive triple-doubles, continues to defy age, but the team’s depth remains a question mark. The demotion of D’Angelo Russell to the bench has been a bold move by Redick, and while Russell has accepted the change, the Lakers still need to find more consistency if they are to be considered true contenders.
#9 – Minnesota Timberwolves (6-4)
Minnesota, led by the red-hot Anthony Edwards, has started strong, but their 6-4 record doesn’t tell the full story. They’ve had a couple of surprise losses, including one to the San Antonio Spurs, but their overall play has been impressive. Edwards is emerging as one of the league’s top shooters and has carried the offence. If the Timberwolves can find more consistency and improve their defence, they may continue to climb the standings in the competitive Western Conference.
#8 – LA Clippers (6-4)
The LA Clippers are showing signs of life after a slow start. With Tyronn Lue at the helm, the Clippers have found their groove, winning their last four games and improving to 6-4. Despite the addition of James Harden, who has struggled to regain his old form, the Clippers’ defence and overall team play have been strong. Harden has not been the scorer he once was, but he has proven to be a valuable playmaker, averaging nearly a triple-double with 21.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game. However, the Clippers will need more offensive firepower to contend with the best in the West.
#7 – Memphis Grizzlies (7-4)
Even with key injuries to Ja Morant and Desmond Bane, the Memphis Grizzlies have remained competitive, posting a 7-4 record. Memphis has found a way to win without its stars, relying on players like Jaren Jackson Jr. and new acquisitions to fill the void. However, the team’s depth will be tested in the coming weeks, and their ability to continue their strong play without two of their best players will determine whether they can stay among the top teams in the West.
#6 – Denver Nuggets (7-3)
After a slow start, the Denver Nuggets have begun to look more like the defending champions they are. With a five-game win streak and a 7-3 record, the Nuggets are back in the mix as one of the top teams in the Western Conference. Nikola Jokic continues to play at an MVP level, averaging 29.7 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 11.7 assists per game. Jamal Murray has also returned to form, making the Nuggets a dangerous team once again. With their championship pedigree and balanced roster, Denver will continue to be a force in the West.
#5 – Oklahoma City Thunder (8-2)
The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by the impressive Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, have become one of the league’s biggest surprises. Despite the injury to Chet Holmgren, who will miss several weeks, the Thunder have been rolling, holding an 8-2 record after the first 10 games. Their offensive firepower, paired with solid defence, has made them one of the most fun teams to watch. If they can maintain their momentum, they could be a legitimate contender in the West.
#4 – Golden State Warriors (8-2)
The Golden State Warriors are once again showing that they’re a team to be reckoned with. Despite an injury to Stephen Curry, the Warriors have been strong, sitting at 8-2. Their defence has been notably better than expected, and the depth of their roster has allowed them to weather injuries to key players. The Warriors’ only loss came at the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers, who currently dominate the top of the NBA power rankings. With Curry back and the team firing on all cylinders, Golden State is sure to be a threat in the postseason.
#3 – Phoenix Suns (7-3)
Despite losing Kevin Durant to a calf injury, the Phoenix Suns have continued to play at a high level. Durant’s injury is expected to sideline him for at least two weeks, but the Suns have managed to go 3-1 in his absence, including an overtime loss to the Sacramento Kings. Devin Booker and Bradley Beal have been strong, and the Suns’ depth has helped keep them afloat. If Phoenix can maintain its current play, it will be in a strong position when Durant returns.
#2 – Boston Celtics (9-2)
The Boston Celtics remain one of the top teams in the East, currently sitting at 9-2. Their defence has been solid, and while they’ve started slow in some games, they’ve found ways to dominate once they settle into their rhythm. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown continue to lead the way, with the team’s overall depth being a huge factor in their success. Despite some early season struggles, the Celtics have proven themselves to be a title contender, and their defensive intensity sets them apart from many other teams in the league.
#1 – Cleveland Cavaliers (11-0)
There’s no denying that the Cleveland Cavaliers are the best team in the NBA right now. With an undefeated 11-0 record, the Cavaliers have been nothing short of dominant. Their offense, led by Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, has taken a big step forward this season. Head coach Kenny Atkinson has revamped the team’s offense, and it’s paying dividends. Not only has Cleveland been efficient offensively, but their defense has also been one of the best in the league. Back-to-back wins over the Milwaukee Bucks, a blowout against the Golden State Warriors, and a thrilling comeback victory over the Brooklyn Nets show just how well-rounded and resilient this team is. As the Cavaliers continue to dominate early in the NBA Power Rankings, they look poised to be one of the top contenders for the championship.
Comments