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.