As we close out the calendar year, the NBA landscape is as unpredictable as ever - filled with surging contenders, struggling giants, and a few surprises shaking up the power rankings. From the top-tier dominance of the Oklahoma City Thunder to the ongoing saga in Golden State, the league is buzzing with storylines that are shaping the early playoff picture. Let’s break down where teams stand this week and what’s fueling their rise - or fall.
Thunder Still Leading the Charge, but Cracks Begin to Show
The Oklahoma City Thunder continue to set the pace for the league with a remarkable 25-3 record. Their young core is playing with poise and confidence, and the chemistry on both ends of the floor is undeniable.
But even the best teams hit turbulence. With two losses in their last three games, there’s a hint of vulnerability - a reminder that staying on top in this league is never easy.
Still, OKC looks like a team built to last, and unless something major shifts, they’ll remain the team to beat heading into the new year.
Pistons Stumble but Stay on Top in the East
Detroit has been one of the season’s most pleasant surprises, and despite a narrow overtime loss to the Mavericks - their first defeat at the hands of a Western Conference team - they’re still perched atop the standings. That loss stings, especially given how close they came to closing it out, but the Pistons have shown enough consistency and resilience to suggest it was more of a speed bump than a red flag. With a strong foundation and a balanced attack, Detroit remains a legitimate threat.
Knicks Keep Rolling Behind Cup Victory
The Knicks are heating up at just the right time. Winners of eight of their last nine and fresh off a championship run in the Emirates NBA Cup, New York is playing with swagger and purpose.
At 20-8, they’ve built a resume that demands respect. The rotation is clicking, the defense is locked in, and the offense is finding rhythm.
If they can sustain this level of play, the Knicks could be a real factor come spring.
Spurs Quietly Building a Contender
San Antonio might not be grabbing headlines, but they’re making a strong case as one of the most complete teams in the league. With a 21-7 record and a six-game winning streak under their belt, the Spurs are doing what they’ve historically done best - winning with discipline, depth, and a clear identity.
Missing out on the NBA Cup may sting, but it hasn’t slowed them down. This group looks built for the long haul.
Nuggets Hit a Bump After Hot Streak
The Denver Nuggets came into the weekend riding high on a six-game win streak, but that momentum came to a halt in a rough loss that marked their worst offensive showing of the season. Scoring just 101 points in 97 possessions, Denver looked out of sync - a rare sight for a team that’s usually surgical on offense. Still, they’re in a strong position in the standings, and one off night doesn’t erase the solid foundation they’ve built.
Timberwolves Trending Up with Edwards Back
Minnesota is climbing the rankings again, thanks in large part to the return of Anthony Edwards. With a 19-10 record and a renewed edge, the Timberwolves are starting to resemble the team many believed they could be.
Edwards brings a dynamic scoring punch and leadership that elevates everyone around him. If he stays healthy and this group continues to gel, they’ll be a tough out for anyone.
Celtics Stay Strong Without Tatum
Boston has been dealing with the absence of Jayson Tatum, but you wouldn’t know it from the way they’ve been playing. Wins over the Heat and Raptors this week showcased their depth and offensive efficiency - they’re currently putting up 124.9 points per 100 possessions, which is elite by any standard. That kind of production without their star forward is a testament to the system and the supporting cast stepping up.
Rockets Skid Hits Rankings Hard
Houston was riding high not long ago, but a rough patch has knocked them down a few pegs. Losing three of their last four games has dropped them to 17-9 and cost them ground in the power rankings.
The talent is there, and the early-season success wasn’t a fluke, but this team now faces the challenge of responding to adversity. How they bounce back in the coming weeks will say a lot about their staying power.
Suns Show Signs of Life
The Phoenix Suns are still searching for consistency, but there are signs they may be turning a corner. At 15-13, the record isn’t where they’d like it to be, but their improved shooting numbers - going from a -4.3 differential last season to +2.4 this year - suggest things are trending upward.
If they can translate that efficiency into wins, they’ll climb quickly. For now, it’s about building momentum and staying healthy.
Lakers a Mixed Bag, but Still in the Hunt
The Lakers have had their moments this season - some encouraging, some head-scratching. At 19-8, the record is solid, but LeBron James hasn’t quite looked like himself lately, and there are concerns around Luka Doncic’s exit against the Clippers.
Still, this team has enough experience and firepower to weather the ups and downs. As long as they stay within striking distance, they’ll be a factor when it matters most.
Warriors’ Turmoil Continues
Golden State is still trying to find its footing, and the situation surrounding Draymond Green’s locker room exit hasn’t helped matters. Steve Kerr recently addressed the issue, but the team continues to struggle with consistency.
The Warriors are used to being the hunted - now they’re hunting just to stay afloat. There’s still time to right the ship, but the margin for error is shrinking fast.
With the new year just around the corner, the league is beginning to take shape. Some teams are surging, others are regrouping, and the playoff picture is slowly coming into focus. One thing’s for sure - if the first few months are any indication, 2026 is going to be a wild ride in the NBA.