Liam’s League Leaders is a weekly column that ranks the top 10 NBA teams, analyzing how balance, efficiency and momentum are shaping the league’s best teams.
We are now a week removed from the All-Star Break, and the standings are tightening, while the tone of the season is changing. Detroit still sits comfortably at the top of the East, and Oklahoma City and San Antonio are making serious noise out West. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers continue to make a late-season push after their fantastic trade deadline acquisitions. Here’s this week’s rankings of the top NBA teams.
1. Detroit Pistons (42-13)
Detroit remains atop as they continue to set the pace in the Eastern Conference. Their formula is simple yet effective: relentless defense, smart half-court execution and maturity, paired with high basketball IQ, that goes beyond their average age of 25.
They have been nearly unbeatable at home with a record of 21-6 and currently have the highest winning percentage in the league at 76%. They continue to extend the gap between them and the second seed, and they will likely secure home court advantage in the East.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder (44-14)
The Thunder still hold the West’s top seed, and their defensive numbers might explain why. Their defensive rating is 106.1, meaning they allow just 106.1 points per 100 possessions. This is currently the best rating in the league, and in superstar guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s absence, they have committed themselves to a defensive presence.
Without Gilgeous-Alexander, the team doesn’t rely on one scoring option. Instead, they overwhelm teams with speed and spacing. Once he comes back from his abdominal strain injury, they will surely be back to being the best team in the league.
3. San Antonio Spurs (40-16)
San Antonio is still within striking distance of the No. 1 seed, sitting three games back. Their offense ranks among the league’s most efficient, and they continue to play disciplined basketball night after night. Victor Wembanyama’s growth has been remarkable. He impacts games without forcing shots, protects the rim on the defensive end, all while stretching defenses thin.
The Spurs have a structure of crisp ball movement, spacing and smart decision-making. They have one of the highest floors in the league, but will their ceiling be the conference finals or being crowned NBA champions?
4. Cleveland Cavaliers (36-22)
Cleveland currently sits at the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference, but the team is awarded the No. 4 spot on this list because since acquiring James Harden, they are 5-1, with their only loss being to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
They look like a completely revamped team, and center Jarrett Allen is trending to be one of the best inside threats in the league. They may not have balanced scoring every night, but their much improved ball movement has made them a legitimate threat to win the NBA finals.
5. Boston Celtics (37-19)
Boston’s defense has kept them at the top of the East all year. They contest shots very well and rebound consistently because of their size. When their offense is clicking, they look like a Finals caliber squad. Their main inconsistency comes from scoring droughts, but that issue can be solved when superstar forward Jayson Tatum returns from injury. If they can maintain rhythm from beyond the arc and limit turnovers, the Celtics have the ability to challenge anyone, even Detroit.
6. Denver Nuggets (36-22)
Denver remains steady as ever. Their offense is humming right now with a 120.1 rating which currently leads the NBA. Nonetheless, their ability to execute in crunch time makes them a threat regardless of their seeding.
Nikola Jokic continues to orchestrate everything with his timing and precision. The Nuggets may not overwhelm other teams athletically, but their chemistry and experience give them a major edge in close games, which could prove to be worth a lot at this point in the season.
7. New York Knicks (37-21)
The Knicks continue to grind out wins. Their physicality and late game composure have defined their season, especially at Madison Square Garden where they have a record of 22-8 and continue to dominate teams.
New York doesn’t rely on highlight plays – although Jalen Brunson does give them a ton – they rely on execution. The only concern is whether the lack of scoring options will be a problem against the league’s elite teams.
8. Houston Rockets (34-21)
Houston’s rise has been fueled by energy and defense, but they still cannot get within the top three seeds in the West.
They rebound aggressively and thrive in transition, forcing opponents into an uncomfortable pace. Their half-court offense is still developing, but Kevin Durant’s efficient scoring as of late has made the offense less stagnant. If their offensive efficiency improves, Houston could push into the West’s top tier.
9. Minnesota Timberwolves (35-23)
Minnesota remains one of the West’s more physical defensive teams. They control the boards and force contested shots, keeping themselves competitive most nights.
Similar to Houston, offensive droughts have been their killer. Long stretches without efficient scoring have cost them close games this season, and if this happens in the playoffs they will be eliminated very quickly. If they find a consistent rhythm, their strong willed defense can carry them throughout the postseason.
10. Toronto Raptors (34-23)
Toronto remains one of the league’s most balanced teams. Multiple players contribute offensively, and their defense has improved significantly throughout the year.
They don’t overwhelm opponents with star power, but they stay disciplined and capitalize on mistakes. In a conference loaded with elite teams, their cohesion gives them a fighting chance to shock the league.
Detroit claims the top spot for the second week in a row, but with several teams still closing the gap, the margin for error is shrinking. The standings are shifting quickly, and no team can afford to coast after the All-Star Break.