NBA Power Rankings: Bucks, Lakers lead the contenders

NBA Power Rankings: The Contenders

1. Milwaukee Bucks

You can’t not have the reigning NBA champions at first in the power rankings. The Bucks are led by a two-time MVP in Giannis Antetokounmpo – a player that has shown no signs of slowing down (and is only 26 years old). Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton are legit stars, and the rest of the supporting cast is no slouch, either.

2. Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers are a top-tier NBA team until proven otherwise. LeBron James has aged gracefully, and Anthony Davis remains one of the best big men in the league to this day. The addition of Russell Westbrook will be really fun to watch. The supporting cast is really old, but I do like Malik Monk and Talen Horton-Tucker on the wing.

3. Golden State Warriors

I’m really hoping that Klay Thompson returns to full form after missing two full NBA seasons. If he is able to do so, it could propel the Warriors to the top of the Western Conference once again. Don’t sleep on this team – especially if their young players are able to contribute steadily.

4. Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets have three superstars. They are the only NBA team that can say that. However, not having Kyrie Irving for more than 50-percent of their games could be killer – especially if he is not able to play at home games come playoff time. The Nets are the most talented team in the league when at full strength.

5. Atlanta Hawks

I’m probably irrationally high on the Atlanta Hawks. They’re good, Trae Young is a star, and they have so many above-average role players that contribute at a high level. They’re fun to watch, can contend with anyone, and have a player that hits clutch shots. There’s not much that isn’t to like with the Hawks.