2018-19 NBA Power Rankings: Philadelphia 76ers end 2018 on sour note
In the loaded Western Conference, the Wolves are still in the playoff hunt. Robert Covington has transformed the defense, Dario Saric is finding his rhythm, and Karl-Anthony Towns continues to produce at a high level. Derrick Rose might win Most Improved Player and Sixth Man of the Year.
The Pelicans have Anthony Davis, who will finish top-10 in the MVP discussion. Add in Jrue Holiday, Nikola Mirotic and Julius Randle, and the Pelicans should be better than they are. Inconsistent bench play, among other things, keeps dragging NOLA down.
After briefly holding the No. 1 seed early in the season, the Grizzlies are regressing to the mean. Jaren Jackson Jr. has been their brightest light, showing generational upside despite limited playing time and an irritatingly short leash. Mike Conley should get All-Star consideration, per usual.
The Heat are picking it up despite losing Goran Dragic to injury. Justise Winslow is beginning to justify his new contract, thriving in the starting point guard role. Miami lacks star talent, but the depth should be enough to keep them in the postseason picture under Spo.
The Mavs are 2-8 in their last 10 games, cooling off considerably. Luka Doncic continues to produce with uncanny polish and efficiency, though, keeping Dallas in playoff contention at 19 years old. He’s your undisputed Rookie of the Year favorite.