With the NBA Playoffs right around the corner, the time is ripe for yet another definitive top-five ranking. There are only roughly 15 games yet to play, and teams are clamoring for higher positions in the standings. As the stakes grow ever higher, here’s how our top teams stack up at this moment in time.
5. Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers have just won their last five games, and sit comfortably at the three spot in the West. With lower expectations on their shoulders than last season, look for them to make a strong push down the stretch.
4. Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers are continuing to prove that this just might be their year. Although they’ll have stiff competition in the playoffs, Joel Embiid is looking as dominant as ever.
3. Phoenix Suns
The biggest feel-good story in this league is the emergence of the Phoenix Suns. After sitting at the bottom of the barrel for a decade, Chris Paul has been the medicine they needed to become an apparent contender.
2. Brooklyn Nets
How exactly do you argue with Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving? Add Blake Griffin and LaMarcus Aldridge to the mix, and we’ve got ourselves a serious problem.
1. Utah Jazz
Sitting pretty with the league’s best record for most of the season, the Jazz are on a campaign to prove that they’re the real deal this time. Will it translate in the playoffs? Either way, they deserve the number one spot right now.
