NBA Power Rankings: Hot or Cold Edition

30 of 31

Jan 7, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Kyle Korver (26) greets fans after defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 96-86 at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Atlanta Hawks

Previous: No. 2

Record: 30-8

Last Week: 4-0

Verdict: On Fire

On Tuesday, January 13, the Atlanta Hawks became the first Eastern Conference team to reach 30 wins. It was the culmination of what’s gone from a period of dominance to an extended stay at the top.

Since opening the season at 5-5, the Hawks have gone 25-3.

Whether Atlanta’s facing a championship contender or a bottom-feeder, it continues to impress. Its past week include home wins over the Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards.

The Hawks also became the first team in 10 games to defeat the Detroit Pistons.

Atlanta has a deep rotation of high-caliber contributors who can all pass, shoot and defend. Mike Budenholzer has implemented a system that depends heavily on ball movement, and Atlanta’s shattering expectations.

There’s a legitimate championship contender in Atlanta. It’s time to believe the hype.

Next: Still No. 1