NBA Power Rankings: Where do the Pelicans rank 10 games in?
By Nick Alvarez
11. Goldens State Warriors (6-6)
The Golden State Warriors still aren’t quite the team they were a few years ago, but they’re getting back to playoff-contending form. That’s why I have them as the 11th ranked team in our NBA Power Rankings.
The key here is Stephen Curry and Steve Kerr. At the moment, the Warriors are trying to integrate a lot of new players into the mix, and while Steve Kerr does that, Curry is putting MVP-level numbers for the first time since 2016. That’s allowed this year’s Warriors squad to tread water for now, but I get the feeling that this team is only a few games away from going on a run.
12. Brooklyn Nets (7-6)
The Brooklyn Nets were looking bad for a tough stretch here, falling to just a game above .500. Making matters worse, Kyrie Iriving is nowhere to be found. That’s dropped the Brooklyn Nets to the 13th in our NBA Power Rankings.
Luckily, reinforcements are on the way for Brooklyn with James Harden coming over via trade. Still, this team has a lot to figure. Will Kyrie Irving return? And if he does, can this new star trio play together? A couple of huge questions for a first-time head coach in Steve Nash. I will say, if they can get it together, this team has the talent to win the NBA title this season!
13. Orlando Magic (6-5)
The Orlando Magic were on a nice run to start the season, but they’ve tumbled down our NBA Power Rankings due to the loss of Markelle Fultz.
Without Fultz, and forward Jonathan Isaac, this Orlando Magic squad is a little undermanned. They’re struggling to score points, and they lack a go-to shot creator. Still, this team is well-coached under Steve Clifford and there’s some belief that they can still be a playoff contender in rookie Cole Anthony can showcase some of his potential this season.