The Sixer Sense
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NBA power rankings: COVID stifles Sixers’ mojo

By Christopher Kline

Seth Curry, Georges Niang, Sixers Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Seth Curry, Georges Niang, Sixers Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE.
Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE. /

NBA power rankings — Blazers, Hornets, Lakers

  • 18. Portland Trail Blazers (5-5)

A tumultuous start has not deterred Damian Lillard from doubling down on his loyalty to Portland. The Blazers’ All-Star has struggled to open the season, but his god-awful shooting percentages figure to eventually return to normal. CJ McCollum has been spectacular, on the other hand, while recent surges from Robert Covington and Anfernee Simons are promising signs.

  • 17. Charlotte Hornets (5-7)

The Hornets have hit a brick wall after starting the season on fire. Now losers of five straight, there’s some real pessimism around the team’s immediate future. That said, LaMelo Ball is a bona fide star. That, combined with the return of Terry Rozier and the ascent of Miles Bridges, makes Charlotte a team to watch. There’s a lot of depth and offensive firepower on this team. Expect the ship to be turned around in the near future.

  • 16. Los Angeles Lakers (6-5)

The early returns on the Russell Westbrook trade are troubling, and the potential for an extended LeBron James absence leaves LA in a tricky spot. The Lakers have managed to keep their heads above water so far, but they’re not a particularly deep team, and the roster’s collective age could mean more injuries in the future.