NBA power rankings — Spurs, Pacers, Kings
- 24. San Antonio Spurs (3-7)
Dejounte Murray has adjusted well to the lead role in San Antonio, posting career highs across the board. The Spurs still have a competitive group under the legendary guidance of Gregg Popovich, but without a proven star at the helm, and with injuries factoring in early, it’s hard to view them as any real threat to the playoffs conversation.
- 23. Indiana Pacers (4-7)
Indiana has won three of four after a rocky start to the season. Injuries to Malcolm Brogdon, Caris LeVert, and T.J. Warren continue to hold them back, but there’s enough collective talent pooled around All-Star Domantas Sabonis to give Indiana the benefit of the doubt. Once the team returns to full health, the Pacers could make a real run. Myles Turner is a frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year, as expected.
- 22. Sacramento Kings (5-6)
To absolutely no one’s surprise, the Kings have been a bit of a wildcard this season. Some nights, it’s blazing glory and vast potential. On other nights, it’s the pit of despair. The Kings need to become more consistent, and that starts with De’Aaron Fox, who looks considerably worse than he did last season. The 24-year-old should round into form (it’s still early), but he’s the engine to the car. Without Fox playing like Fox, the Kings are hopeless.