For the first time this season, the Golden State Warriors find themselves outside the top 3 spot on ESPN's weekly power rankings. While they still hold the best record in the league at 32-6, a 24 point collapse against the Grizzlies and superb basketball by the Spurs and Rockets pushed them down 2 spots. The Cleveland Cavaliers still hold the top spot with the acquisition of sharp shooter Kyle Korver and despite their loss on Wednesday to the Bulls.
The Houston Rockets, who moved up from third the power rankings, are 9-1 in their last 10 games and have won eight in a row behind the monstrous stats put up by James Harden this season. Coach Mike D'Antoni has developed a perfect system that utilizes Harden's ability to go one-on-one with practically any defender. A high pick gives Harden enough room to make his move to score or kick the ball out to open shooters should a double-team meet him at the ring. This go-to play has resulted in the Rockets' 30-9 record which is good for third best in the west.
The San Antonio Spurs who were previously in fourth moved up to third thanks in large part to the efficient shooting of key big man Lamarcus Aldridge and sharpshooter Danny Green. Green is currently shooting 45.8 percent from deep after struggling the previous season and early injuries this season. The Spurs are 8-2 in their last 10 games with each win coming by an average of 16pts while losing by five or less in the two losses.
Warriors fans should not worry too much about dropping 2 spots in the weekly power rankings as their team is still the team to beat in the west. Holding the best record half-way through the season and being the two-time defending Western Conference champions gives the team more than a little confidence. However, Golden State may be winning games but an evident lack of coordination and proper late game execution has caused them to blow multiple double-digit leads this season. The Warriors will go on a 4 game home stand against Miami, Detroit, Cleveland and Oklahoma City in the next 8 days so look for them to take advantage of the weaker opponents and hopefully redeem their loss to the Cavs.
*(Team Stats and Standings were acquired from ESPN.com)
*From NBA.com "NBA.com's Power Rankings, released every Monday during the season, are just one man's opinion. If you have an issue with the rankings or have a question or comment for John Schuhmann, send him an e-mail or contact him via Twitter."
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