7. Houston Rockets
The Rockets are similar to the Timberwolves in their ability to be floating around this range in the power rankings all season. They have had a few weeks where they take jumps because of the big wins they get against great teams, including their recent upset of the Suns when Kevin Durant did Kevin Durant things. The Rockets are a contender in the Western Conference; their team chemistry and composition allow them to have a chance against anyone.
6. Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets have and will be missing Nikola Jokic for about a month; they have needed some of their other guys to step up, and they have, to an extent. There is only so much the Nuggets can do without the MVP of the NBA and one of the best offensive players in NBA history. Jamal Murray has taken a step up since Jokic’s absence, and the Nuggets just have to remain floating.
5. Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers had a small part of the season where they were struggling a little bit, but since then, they have been on fire. Lebron James has felt like he has in the past few seasons, where the Lakers still feel unstoppable when he is at his best. The Lakers are on fire right now and in third place in the Western Conference.
