Wed Nov 13 08:20:00 UTC 2024: ## NBA Power Rankings: Week 2 Surprises and Injuries Shake Up the League

The first couple of weeks of the 2024-25 NBA season have delivered plenty of surprises, with some preseason favorites struggling out of the gate while others have exceeded expectations.

In the East, the Milwaukee Bucks have stumbled out of the gate, their new pairing of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard yet to find its rhythm. The Philadelphia 76ers are also struggling, missing both Paul George (bone bruise) and Joel Embiid (yet to play).

On the other side of the spectrum, the Phoenix Suns have a strong start with their “big three” of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal firing on all cylinders. The Golden State Warriors, with the addition of Buddy Hield, have also emerged as a strong contender in the West.

Here’s a look at some of the key storylines and players to watch as teams begin to find their footing:

**Early Standouts:**

* **Oklahoma City Thunder:** Anchored by a smothering defense led by Chet Holmgren, the Thunder are undefeated and boast the league’s best defense.
* **Cleveland Cavaliers:** They’ve tied the franchise record for best start at 8-0 and are a team to watch in the East.
* **Boston Celtics:** Their offense is firing on all cylinders, averaging over 50 three-point attempts per game.
* **Golden State Warriors:** A strong defense and the scoring punch of Buddy Hield have the Warriors off to a strong start.

**Injuries and Struggles:**

* **Memphis Grizzlies:** The Grizzlies have already lost several key players to injuries, including Desmond Bane, Marcus Smart, and Luke Kennard, and are hoping to avoid a repeat of last season’s injury-plagued campaign.
* **New Orleans Pelicans:** The Pelicans have been hit by injuries as well, with Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, and Trey Murphy III all sidelined.
* **Orlando Magic:** The Magic are struggling with injuries to Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr., which has hampered their offensive production.
* **Indiana Pacers:** Tyrese Haliburton has struggled to find his form, impacting the Pacers’ early season performance.

**Other Notable Developments:**

* **New York Knicks:** The duo of OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges has been instrumental in the Knicks’ improved defense.
* **Minnesota Timberwolves:** Anthony Edwards is leading the NBA in three-point attempts per game and shooting a high percentage from beyond the arc.
* **Dallas Mavericks:** Dereck Lively II has been a positive force off the bench for the Mavericks, showcasing his potential.
* **Atlanta Hawks:** Trae Young is leading the league in assists, but the Hawks still struggle defensively.
* **Los Angeles Clippers:** The Clippers are showcasing an improved defense, but lack of offense outside of James Harden is a concern.
* **San Antonio Spurs:** Victor Wembanyama is starting to find his footing, and the Spurs are eagerly awaiting the return of Devin Vassell.

As the season progresses, the NBA landscape will likely continue to shift as teams adjust to new rosters, injuries heal, and players find their roles. The early weeks have already provided plenty of drama and surprises, making for an exciting start to the season.

Read More