NBA power rankings — 18. Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies took a slight step back with the Valanciunas trade, but still, ninth-seeded Memphis was better than multiple Eastern Conference playoff teams last season. Ja Morant looked golden on the biggest stage, and the Grizzlies remain filled to capacity with talented, useful young players.
Dillon Brooks has turned into quite the two-way weapon, and Jaren Jackson Jr. is due for a big third season after injuries and COVID derailed his sophomore campaign. Steven Adams is a downgrade at center, sure, but he’s still an impactful big who will feast on Morant dump-offs at the rim. The Grizzlies are lurking and ready to pounce.
NBA power rankings — 17. Indiana Pacers
A competent coach should change a lot for the Pacers, who are much better than last season’s record would suggest. Domantas Sabonis is the only All-Star on the roster, but both Malcolm Brogdon and Caris LeVert are approaching that level. With T.J. Warren back in the fold, potential improvements to the second unit, and Rick Carlisle making the calls, Indiana should be firmly in the playoff hunt.
The Pacers are a team to watch on the trade market, too. If not for Ben Simmons, then potentially a move that unloads Myles Turner to create more operating room for Sabonis inside. Either way, there’s too much talent on Indy’s roster to flop two years in a row.
NBA power rankings — 16. New York Knicks
The Knicks are the least trustworthy “contender” in the NBA. Julius Randle made second team All-NBA, but then he got emasculated in the playoffs. New York made moves to ease the creative burden on his shoulders, but it’s fair to wonder if he’ll reach the same heights next season.
That said, Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier will do a lot of good in the New York backcourt. With multiple playmakers and shooters on the perimeter, Randle’s life should get much easier. Not to mention R.J. Barrett, who hit 40 percent of his 3s last season and found his rhythm as a downhill finisher.