Three weeks into the NBA season, the picture is starting to take shape. Contenders are settling in, young stars are rising fast, and a few teams that entered the year with big expectations are already feeling the pressure. With early momentum shifting across the league, here are the Top 10 teams making noise heading into Week 3 of the power rankings.
10. Timberwolves
The Timberwolves are sitting at 5-4, but they have some of the most potential in the NBA. Their defensive ceiling is one of the highest in the NBA. Anthony Edwards is one of the best players in the NBA and can turn up at any time to win any game. The Timberwolves are number 10 in the rankings.
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9. 76ers
Nov 2, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe (77) reacts after a dunk against the Brooklyn Nets during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
The 76ers have been much more balanced than previously thought coming into the season. The 76ers have had a great start from their rookie VJ Edgecombe, and he has just fit really well with the team and has been a sparkplug for the team.
8. Bulls
The Bulls are playing a brand of basketball that perfectly fits their team, fast-paced and quick passes. Josh Giddey has been one of the best players in the NBA. He has been the motor for the Bulls.
7. Knicks
The Knicks are at number 7, almost solely based on their talent; they are able to win any game they play in because they are so talented at the top. They could easily be higher on this list, but their lack of depth and bad start to the season have been holding them back.
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6. Rockets
Nov 3, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts in the second quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
The Rockets started off the season 1-2 but have since then been really great. They have clicked as a team and will continue to be one of the most competitive teams in the NBA.
5. Spurs
Stephon Castle and Wembanyama have been one of the NBA’s best duos; their athleticism simply makes them great. The Spurs are growing and will continue to grow throughout the season. They land at 5 in the power rankings.
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4. Lakers
The Lakers have probably been the most fun team to watch in the entire NBA. Luka Doncic is currently the frontrunner for MVP. The Lakers have had a different person step up every single game and still have been able to produce wins without LeBron.
3. Cavs
Nov 5, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) celebrates his three-point basket in the first quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
The Cavs have by far been the best team in the Eastern Conference; they have proven that they will be a contender again. The addition of Lonzo Ball has been so helpful, and Donovan Mitchell has been on fire to begin the season.
2. Nuggets
The Nuggets have the best player in the NBA and are continuing to build a stronger connection with a revamped team. Cameron Johnson has been underwhelming, but he will adjust and be a bigger help as the year goes on.
1. Thunder
The Thunder are by far the best team in the NBA. They are the best defensively and have shown they can win and will win. The Thunder have one of the best-built teams we have seen in a long time. They will be number 1 for the foreseeable future.
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