In Week 4 of our 2016-17 NBA Power Rankings, the Los Angeles Clippers have claimed the top spot thanks to their 9-1 start to the season.
Heading into our fourth week of NBA action, we’re starting to get a better lay of the land. We know the Cavaliers, Warriors and Spurs are all good, just like we know the 76ers and Pelicans are terrible.
There have been some surprises, however. The Nets are hovering just below .500, the Lakers have a winning record and the Hornets are near the top of the East despite losing so many free agents over the summer.
However, it’s the Los Angeles Clippers who have stood out the most through the first three weeks of NBA action, posting a league-best record of 9-1. Here in Week 4, that’s enough to move them into the top spot over the defending champs.
We’ve seen Lob City turn to Slob City come playoff time, and peaking in November has never won anyone a championship. But in what might be the Clippers’ last hurrah, it’s time we acknowledge their league-best defense, improved bench, and the inescapable feeling that 2016-17 might be different for the cursed franchise.
Here’s a look at our Week 4 2016-17 NBA Power Rankings.