NBA Power Rankings Week 17: Celtics & Nuggets Dominate Playoff Race
The NBA’s Week 17 Power Rankings reveal key shifts in the standings as teams make their final push ahead of the All-Star break. The Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets are surging, while trade deadline moves reshape the playoff picture. Dive into the latest analysis, stats, and matchups to see where your team stands as we head toward the second half of the season!
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Top 5 Teams Surging in the Power Rankings
1. Oklahoma City Thunder (42-9 | Last Week: 1)
Stats: 117.2 OffRtg (6th) | 104.3 DefRtg (1st) | +12.9 NetRtg (1st)
Key Takeaways:
Chet Holmgren’s return has been a game-changer for the Thunder’s defense, pairing with Isaiah Hartenstein for elite rim protection.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s stellar performance, including a +109 plus-minus last week, continues to propel Oklahoma City’s dominance.
The Thunder’s ability to limit turnovers remains impressive, with 14 games of 10 or fewer turnovers than their opponents.
Week 17: vs. Pelicans, Heat, @ Timberwolves
2. Boston Celtics (37-16 | Last Week: 4↑)
Stats: 119.0 OffRtg (3rd) | 110.0 DefRtg (5th) | +9.0 NetRtg (3rd)
Key Takeaways:
Jayson Tatum and Payton Pritchard led the Celtics to crucial victories against the Cavs and Knicks.
Luke Kornet’s versatility as a big man has been a key factor, with a monster 14/12/3 blocks performance against New York.
The Celtics are looking to extend their 4-game win streak, with a matchup against the Spurs on the horizon.
Week 17: @ Heat, vs. Spurs
3. Cleveland Cavaliers (42-10 | Last Week: 3)
Stats: 121.7 OffRtg (1st) | 111.7 DefRtg (8th) | +10.0 NetRtg (2nd)
Key Takeaways:
The addition of De’Andre Hunter provides depth, although Caris LeVert’s recent struggles are a concern.
Darius Garland continues to shine in clutch moments, hitting 7/12 of his clutch 3-point attempts.
The Cavaliers face a crucial matchup against the Timberwolves, as both teams battle for East supremacy.
Week 17: vs. Timberwolves, @ Raptors
4. Denver Nuggets (34-19 | Last Week: 7↑)
Stats: 118.9 OffRtg (4th) | 113.7 DefRtg (17th) | +5.3 NetRtg (6th)
Key Takeaways:
Nikola Jokić’s MVP-level play and Michael Porter Jr.’s red-hot streak (35 PPG) have powered Denver’s six-game win streak.
The Nuggets’ fast-break offense ranks 4th in the league, averaging 26.2 PPG.
Two back-to-back games against the Blazers will test the Nuggets’ revamped defense.
Week 17: vs. Blazers (x2)
5. New York Knicks (34-18 | Last Week: 6↑)
Stats: 119.6 OffRtg (2nd) | 113.7 DefRtg (16th) | +5.9 NetRtg (5th)
Key Takeaways:
The Knicks continue to struggle against elite teams, with a 0-5 record against the Celtics, Cavaliers, and Thunder.
The absence of OG Anunoby has exposed defensive gaps, with a 125.5 DefRtg over the last four games.
A key matchup against the Pacers will have major playoff implications for New York.
Week 17: @ Pacers, vs. Hawks
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Biggest Risers & Fallers
Risers: Lakers (+4), Magic (+4), Trail Blazers (+5)
Fallers: Rockets (-6), Clippers (-3), Kings (-3)
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Key Storylines to Watch
Lakers’ New Era: With Luka Dončić’s potential debut on the horizon, the Lakers hope to find a new level of success, though health concerns persist.
Warriors Gamble: The addition of Jimmy Butler to Golden State’s roster could be the spark they need to revive their playoff hopes.
Trade Fallout: The effects of the Hawks’ Hunter trade, the Cavaliers’ experiment with Hunter, and the Suns’ stagnant roster are under heavy scrutiny.
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Week 17 Must-See Games
Celtics @ Heat (Feb 12): A heavyweight Eastern Conference matchup post-trade deadline.
Lakers vs. Jazz (Feb 12 & 14): Dončić’s potential debut highlights this home-and-home series.
Nuggets vs. Blazers (Feb 13 & 15): A clash of Denver’s high-powered offense versus Portland’s stout defense.
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MVP Ladder Snapshot
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder): Dominating with 50-point performances and the league’s best plus-minus.
2. Jayson Tatum (Celtics): A 40-point explosion against the Knicks solidifies his MVP case.
3. Nikola Jokić (Nuggets): Triple-doubles continue to fuel Denver’s rise in the standings.
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Final Thoughts
With the NBA playoff picture taking shape post-trade deadline, the Celtics and Nuggets are on the rise, while the Thunder maintain their dominant grip on the standings. Week 17 promises thrilling matchups, and the push toward the All-Star break is sure to bring more excitement. Stay tuned for the next breakdown as the second half of the season heats up!
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