The Sixer Sense
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NBA power rankings: Are the Sixers contenders right now?

By Christopher Kline

Joel Embiid, Sixers (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Joel Embiid, Sixers (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

NBA power rankings — Pistons, Pelicans, Spurs

  • 27. Detroit Pistons (0-4)

The Pistons have missed Cade Cunningham so far. Jerami Grant continues to shine in the role of No. 1 scorer, but Killian Hayes’ lack of development and the surge of youth on the roster has put them firmly in the Eastern Conference basement. We could see some mild improvement in the near future depending on Cunningham’s NBA readiness, but for now, there’s a reason Detroit is winless.

  • 26. New Orleans Pelicans (1-4)

Zion Williamson is the lifeblood of the Pelicans offense, so his absence has predictably tanked the team’s performance. There are definite reasons for optimism. Devonte’ Graham, Brandon Ingram, and Jonas Valanciunas is a talented trio, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker could make noise in the Most Improved Player conversation. That said, NOLA just isn’t very good right now. With youth and a new coach at the reigns, it’s best to temper expectations until Zion returns.

  • 25. San Antonio Spurs (1-4)

It’s weird for Gregg Popovich to be so far removed from competitive status, but this San Antonio team is firmly geared toward the future. The Spurs have proven they can compete every night, and there’s no shortage of young talent on the roster, but Dejounte Murray and Derrick White can only carry a team so far. Devin Vassell is on the verge of a breakout, though, and is a name worth watching.