NBA power rankings — 27. Orlando Magic
Orlando has silently built one of the NBA’s most exciting young teams. From impressive guard depth to a flexible and dynamic frontcourt, the Magic have the capacity for high-level defense and, at times, explosive offense. Paolo Banchero, the reigning No. 1 pick, should only help with the latter. Add him to the mix with Wendell Carter Jr., who ascended in a big way last season, Markelle Fultz, Cole Anthony, and Franz Wagner, and you have a team that could start winning games sooner than later if the puzzles pieces come together.
NBA power rankings — 26. Indiana Pacers
The Pacers traded Malcolm Brogdon and might not be done swinging big trades. A rebuild feels inevitable — last season’s promises of a swift “retool” now feel like the distant past. Tyrese Haliburton is getting very good very fast, but he alone won’t win too many games. Not yet, at least. Indiana has built up a strong young core and has maneuvered assets well, but it’s all about the future right now.
NBA power rankings — 25. Washington Wizards
The Wizards continue to cling tightly to mediocrity. Bradley Beal signed an extension and will start next season with his new co-star in Kristaps Porzingis. Washington has never had much trouble putting together a respectable offense — in large part because of Beal’s elite scoring prowess — but the defense is a mess and there’s simply not much depth to speak of. Porzingis has been equal parts good and bad in recent years, and Washington doesn’t have an obvious path to building a real contender around Beal.