NBA power rankings: Sixers slowly recalibrating after tough stretch

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NBA power rankings — Sixers, Cavaliers, Wizards

12. Philadelphia 76ers (12-11)

The Sixers have been a mess lately, but Friday’s win over red-hot Atlanta put them back above .500 and showcased the early signs of Joel Embiid’s long overdue return to form. Embiid alone keeps Philadelphia in the contending conversation, and with more time, the team should regain some of its pre-COVID form. Both Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris have better days ahead. There’s no reason for panic.

11. Cleveland Cavaliers (13-10)

Cleveland has been a genuine treat this season, with Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley propelling them into the next stage of what can tentatively be called a successful rebuild. The season-ending absence of Collin Sexton is deeply unfortunate, but Cleveland has the talent and depth to compete without him. Mobley is the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, and both Garland and Allen have fringe All-Star cases.

10. Washington Wizards (14-9)

The Wizards have only won four of their last 10, and the Bradley Beal-Spencer Dinwiddie duo hasn’t entirely clicked. And yet, they’re still 14-9 — on track for home-court advantage in the playoffs. It’s way too early for postseason predictions, but Washington has one of the most balanced teams in the NBA, with excellent depth courtesy of the Westbrook trade and a star in Beal who will only get better as the season progresses.