2018-19 NBA Power Rankings: Philadelphia 76ers have new life

The Philadelphia 76ers are beginning to look the part of Eastern Conference contenders.

With Jonah Bolden and Corey Brewer joining the regular rotation, the Philadelphia 76ers have seen an uptick in production. Despite losses to Oklahoma City and Denver, it’s clear Brett Brown and Co. are turning a corner.

The second unit no longer feels inept, while Joel Embiid‘s MVP case continues to grow. He’s still a tier below Giannis Antetokounmpo and James Harden in that conversation, but the All-Star starter should get some consideration in June.

Here’s where the Sixers stand in the NBA landscape.

(Standings accurate as of 1/27/2019 at 12PM E.T.)

The Cavs are just bad. With Kevin Love toiling on the sideline, there’s really no room for optimism. It will come down to lottery balls next summer.

The Knicks are also waiting on lottery balls. Enes Kanter wants a trade, Tim Hardaway Jr. publicly criticized Allonzo Trier, and the young core continues to ebb and flow. Kevin Knox looks promising at least.

The Bulls have gotten tangibly worse since replacing Fred Hoiberg with Jim Boylen. The latter has an outdated philosophy, questionable leadership traits and an apparent inability to connect with his players. It’s not great.

The Suns are wasting Devin Booker and Deandre Ayton‘s first season in tandem. It’s not unexpected, but still concerning to see the lack of all-around growth.

Even with tanking in mind, the Hawks have been surprisingly competitive in recent weeks. Trae Young is turning a corner, Kevin Huerter looks legit, and John Collins has a fringe All-Star case. Vince Carter, now 42 years old, is still playing decent minutes.