One month into the NBA season and the small sample size is no longer an issue – trends are developing, panic is setting in at some franchises, and others are lifting their expectations after strong starts. Boston, the reigning champions Denver, Golden State and the Clippers have all faced challenges early in the season. Here’s a look at how all 30 teams are shaping up.
Tier one – legit contenders (humming along)
1 Boston Celtics (12-4)
2 Denver Nuggets (10-6)
3 Philadelphia 76ers (10-5)
4 Milwaukee Bucks (11-5)
5 Miami Heat (10-6)
6 Minnesota Timberwolves (11-4)
7 Phoenix Suns (10-6)
Tier two – fringe contenders (need changes to be a hope)
8 Los Angeles Lakers (9-7)
9 Dallas Mavericks (10-5)
10 Sacramento Kings (9-6)
11 Oklahoma City Thunder (11-4)
12 Golden State Warriors (8-9)
Tier three – playoff hopes (but won’t go any further)
13 Cleveland Cavaliers (8-7)
14 New York Knicks (9-6)
15 LA Clippers (6-8)
16 New Orleans Pelicans (9-7)
17 Orlando Magic (11-5)
18 Indiana Pacers (9-6)