NBA Power Rankings: Week 1 of the 2024-25 Season

The first week of the NBA season has concluded, bringing significant changes to the power rankings. With only a small fraction of games played, some teams have impressed, while others have raised serious concerns.

As of now, the Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Cleveland Cavaliers remain undefeated, while the Utah Jazz and Detroit Pistons have yet to secure a win. The rest of the teams find themselves in a middle-ground position, but here’s how all 30 teams stack up after the opening week.

SportsRation’s Uduak Oscar in this article delivers judgement on each NBA team in the Week 1 Power Rankings for the 2024-25 season:

Tier 1: Title Contenders

Boston Celtics
The Celtics have indeed hit the ground running. Tatum’s improvement in three-point shooting is crucial for their spacing and offensive flow. The depth shown by Pritchard adds a valuable dimension off the bench, keeping their momentum even with Porzingis sidelined. They appear to be serious title contenders this season!

Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder’s defensive prowess has been impressive so far, and the combination of Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren could pose significant challenges for opponents. Their depth is a strong asset, and it will be interesting to see if they can maintain this level of play against stronger teams.

Tier 2: Teams Closing in on the Top

Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers are looking solid, especially with Mobley stepping up defensively. It’ll be key for them to keep this momentum as they face tougher competition; they’ll need to keep pushing their limits to prove they can handle playoff pressure.

Los Angeles Lakers
JJ Redick seems to have rejuvenated the Lakers’ playstyle. If Davis and LeBron can stay healthy and continue performing at a high level, they have the potential to be a major force in the West this season. Keep an eye on how Knecht develops as well—his contribution could be pivotal!

Phoenix Suns
Under Budenholzer, the Suns are adapting well to their new offensive strategies. Durant’s scoring remains elite, and if Beal can return to full health soon, they’ll be tough to handle in the playoffs. The synergy between these star players will be vital for their success.

Dallas Mavericks
Thompson’s resurgence is a pleasant surprise for Dallas, but finding consistent production from the bench is crucial for their success. Luka’s play will continue to be the focal point, but they need more balance to compete effectively in the tight West.

Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves have rebounded well from their initial struggles, which bodes well for their confidence moving forward. Randle’s improvement is essential, and they must focus on integrating their new additions effectively to make a push in the playoffs.

New York Knicks
The Knicks’ early defensive issues are concerning, especially with their recent struggles against both the Celtics and Cavaliers. Addressing these defensive lapses is crucial for turning their season around. They have the talent; it’s about finding that chemistry.

Tier 3: Good Playoff Teams

Orlando Magic
The Magic’s start has been eye-catching, particularly Banchero’s performance. If they can sustain this offensive output and further develop their younger players, they could be a dark horse in the playoff race.

Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets have shown they can lean on Jokic, but support from the rest of the squad is essential for their long-term success. They’ll need to find their rhythm quickly to avoid falling behind in a competitive West.

Golden State Warriors
The Warriors are navigating Curry’s injury well, showcasing their depth. Wiggins stepping up is promising, and Hield’s Sixth Man candidacy could add a new dimension off the bench. They will be dangerous if they can maintain consistency.

New Orleans Pelicans
Ingram’s ability to score despite injuries is impressive, but the Pelicans need to rally around him and find consistency if they want to compete in a tough Western Conference. Staying healthy will be their biggest challenge.

Memphis Grizzlies
Morant’s rise is exciting, but Smart’s inconsistency could hamper their efforts. They’ll need everyone on board to solidify their playoff position; finding that balance will be key for their success.

Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks’ struggles without Middleton raise valid concerns about their depth. Giannis is carrying the load, but the supporting cast needs to step up significantly to avoid dropping further in the rankings.

Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers are showing resilience, and Harden’s adaptation is impressive. If they can continue to play well without Leonard, they could surprise many and stay competitive in the playoff hunt.

Philadelphia 76ers
The injuries to Embiid and George are undeniably hurting the 76ers. They need to find ways to adapt and improve their overall performance to stay relevant in the East.

Indiana Pacers
The Pacers’ slow start is worrisome, especially with Haliburton not hitting his stride. They need to find a way to speed up their game and regain their usual fast-paced play for a shot at a playoff spot.

Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks remain competitive but need to find more consistency across the board. Young’s offensive output is crucial, but the team must address its overall inconsistency to avoid falling behind.

Tier 4: Struggling Teams

Miami Heat
The Heat’s early struggles are surprising, especially with Butler underperforming. They need to find their groove quickly to avoid slipping further down the rankings.

Brooklyn Nets
The Nets’ lack of impact is concerning. They need to step up their game and establish their identity to be a serious contender in the East.

Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets are treading water but must improve their overall play to be a factor in the playoffs. They can’t afford to remain inconsistent in a competitive conference.

Toronto Raptors
The Raptors’ injuries are impacting their performance, but they must work to improve team chemistry as they find their footing. A solid effort from the team will be needed to climb the ranks.

San Antonio Spurs
The rebuilding phase for the Spurs is a long process. They’ll need to focus on development and growth this season to lay a solid foundation for the future.

Houston Rockets
The Rockets need to find consistency to unlock their potential. Without a steady performance, they risk losing valuable momentum early in the season.

Detroit Pistons
The Pistons’ winless start is a significant concern. They need to reevaluate their strategy and execution quickly to start finding success in the games ahead.

Utah Jazz
The Jazz are facing numerous challenges as they search for their first win. They need to regroup and focus on playing to their strengths to turn their season around.