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NBA Bubble Power Rankings Preview: Looking at week one

By Corey Rausch

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 08: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers is fouled by Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers during a 112-103 Lakers win at Staples Center on March 08, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 08: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers is fouled by Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers during a 112-103 Lakers win at Staples Center on March 08, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

. 41-24. Previous: 9th. Miami Heat. 9. team. 110

Even if they are staying in the exact place they were a week ago, it is impossible not to feel better about the Miami Heat seven days later. Kendrick Nunn and Bam Adebayo have joined the team in the bubble. While they were not available early, the team is rounding into form at the right time.

And then Duncan Robinson reminded everyone in the team’s first scrimmage just who he is. It is easy to get carried away when we have not seen basketball since March (more on that as we go along) but it is hard to argue with Goran Dragic calling his teammate the best shooter in the league.

Robinson currently ranks third in 3-point percentage (44.8) and makes (243). Along with teammates Tyler Herro and Kendrick Nunn, he adds something to the Heat that most casual fans do not often think about.

It is easy if you have not watched Miami much to think the team is all Jimmy Butler and then remember Bam Adebayo too. While those players are essential to any Miami success, the shooting around them fleshes out their offense in a way that should never be discounted. The Heat restart the season with the Nuggets, who have had a fun surprise of their own during scrimmage season.

93. . 39-26. Previous: 7th. Philadelphia 76ers. 8. team

As stated before, the Philadelphia 76ers start with Indiana and are in prime position to take advantage of any time missed by Sabonis. As they reshape their lineup, it will be a tough test even with the All-Star missing action, but the intrigue cannot be denied.

Philadelphia has what it takes to win it all if they can just get out of their own way. Moving Al Hordford to the bench, and potentially playing him always without Joel Embiid, could be a blessing in disguise. While many were willing to talk themselves into Horford playing his natural position again for the first time since his college days, moving to the bench gives him a chance to play center and take advantage of bench units.

Ben Simmons moving to power forward means that there will be even more playmaking in the starting lineup. And no center in the Eastern Conference can handle a healthy Joel Embiid.

If the Sixers are healthy and on the same page, they still have that championship upside. Is Shake Milton the answer to unlock that potential? Only time will tell. Step one, get past the Pacers.