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NBA Power Rankings: Hot or Cold Edition

By Maxwell Ogden

Jan 11, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Jeff Teague (0) shows emotion against the Washington Wizards in the second quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Jeff Teague (0) shows emotion against the Washington Wizards in the second quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 7, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; A general view of signs after the game against the Orlando Magic at Pepsi Center. The Nuggets defeated the Magic 93-90. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 7, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; A general view of signs after the game against the Orlando Magic at Pepsi Center. The Nuggets defeated the Magic 93-90. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

19. Denver Nuggets

Previous: No. 19

Record: 17-20

Last Week: 2-0

Verdict: Hot

It may not be making many headlines, but the Denver Nuggets have gotten off to a superb start in January. Since falling 106-101 at the Chicago Bulls, Denver has won each of its past four games.

Just like that, Denver’s back in the hunt for the No. 8 seed.

Led by Ty Lawson and the resurgent Kenneth Faried, Denver is beginning to live up to its potential. It blew out the Memphis Grizzlies 114-85 and has worked its way to within three games of .500.

Denver traded Nate Robinson for Jameer Nelson in an attempt to improve the flow of its second unit.

The remaining task is solidifying its defense.

Denver’s offense is starting to flourish, but the defense remains in the bottom third of the NBA. That could be an issue of personnel, but a ranking that low generally has to do with playing style.

It’ll be tough to get into the playoffs, but Denver’s on pace for a big second half of the season.

Next: Still On Fire