Let me get this out the way immediately, my Chicago Bulls will not be featured on this power ranking list. Here’s my thoughts on who the top five teams are based on games played through 12/11/2022.

 1. Boston Celtics

This team is rolling, although suffering a loss on primetime over the weekend to the defending champions. The Celtics are still currently holding the best record in the entire league at 21-6 and have the best overall offensive rating. They are also a top 10 defensive team (currently 8th) to back up the scoring. I can see them moving up higher in defensive rating once they get their rim protector Robert Williams III back from injury. Al Horford has been out the last few games with an injury as well. Missing both of those guys makes them a smaller team in the paint but the perimeter defense can still be a difference maker.

Let’s not forget they have in my opinion the front runner for MVP, Jayson Tatum playing at an elite level. He and wing mate Jaylen Brown are arguably the best scoring duo in the league.

2. New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans are winners of seven straight and have two big wins over the Phoenix Suns over their last two. Their depth has shown up over this win streak as key players: Brandon Ingram, Herbert Jones and CJ McCollum have all missed games. Jose Alvarado, Naji Marshall, Larry Nance Jr. and Trey Murphy III  have all contributed in a major way over this run.

Zion Williamson is dominating and has definitely crept his way into the MVP race. He’s averaged 30 points per game over this streak.

This team is top five in both offensive and defensive ratings. They have the potential to be championship contenders this year if health is on their side come playoff time.

3. Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis has shown why he is the best player in the world so far this season. The Bucks offense hasn’t been as efficient in seasons past but with them rated as the second best defensive team, they are winning games and can soon pass the Celtics with the best record in the league as their strength of schedule is and has been pretty easy.

Kris Middleton is now back healthy and once he finds his groove, the Bucks will continue to remain at the top of the East.

4. Memphis Grizzlies

The Grizzlies are a top 10 offensive and defensive team once again. They dominate when playing at home and have a record of 11-2 in those games. Jaren Jackson Jr. is back to provide help for Ja as Desmond Bane still recovers from his toe injury. Jackson Jr. is averaging basically 20 points per game for the month of December and the Grizzlies will need that additional 20 point per game scorer since Bane, who averages about 25 points per game is out another week or two.

Ja Morant is simply the best point guard in the league. (I consider Steph more of a shooting/combo guard. An argument can be made for Luka as top point guard.

5. Phoenix Suns

The Suns are trending down since the return of CP3 as they’ve lost four games in a row but they are another dominant home team with a record of 12-3. Currently they are rated as number two offensively. Once they decide to really buckle down on defense they will start to pile up wins again.

Next in line: Cleveland Cavaliers