Table of Contents
1. Boston Celtics (13-3)
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The Celtics are undoubtedly the hottest team in the NBA right now after winning nine straight games and ten of their last eleven. Jayson Tatum is making his case for MVP through five weeks, as he has averaged 31.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. Boston has finally taken down Milwaukee for the top spot in the power rankings, and this battle will be one to watch as the season plays out.
2. Milwaukee Bucks (11-4)
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The Bucks have finally taken a tumble, a minor one at that, after dropping three of their last five games. They have also surrendered the top spot in the Eastern Conference to the aforementioned Celtics, and Khris Middleton’s absence is beginning to take a toll on this Milwaukee unit. Giannis Antetokounmpo is still putting up MVP-caliber numbers, averaging 29.9 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists, but he can still use as much help as possible with Middleton’s return in question.
3. Utah Jazz (12-6)
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This Jazz team may be for real. At 12-6, Utah currently holds its position as the top-seeded team in the West. Back-to-back wins over the Suns and Trail Blazers are more than enough evidence to prove that Utah can be a serious threat and contender in the Western Conference thus far. Lauri Markkanen is averaging 21.3 points and 8.4 rebounds as he continues his push for an all-star selection later this season. Many including myself have been hesitant to call this fast start anything but a fluke, but the Jazz continue to prove themselves game after game this season.
4. Portland Trail Blazers (10-6)
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The Trail Blazers have won four of their last five games before a 109-107 loss to the Nets on Thursday. Jerami Grant led Portland in scoring in three straight games with 27, 39, and 29 points, giving All-Star guard Damian Lillard some much-needed offensive support. After their most recent loss to the third-ranked team this week, it is evident that the Western Conference will stay very competitive at the top for the remainder of the season.
5. Atlanta Hawks (10-6)
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Before an ugly 25-point loss to the top-ranked Celtics on Wednesday, Atlanta had won their matchup with Milwaukee as well as splitting two games with Philadelphia. They followed their most recent defeat with an overtime victory against the Raptors, and the Hawks are back on track as they currently hold the third seed in a very competitive Eastern Conference. Trae Young is averaging 26.9 points and 9.3 assists, but the 30.8% shooting percentage from 3-point range is most concerning.
