NBA Power Rankings Week 1: The rise of the Brooklyn Nets

Last Week: Lost to Philadelphia 76ers 113-107, Lost to the Orlando Magic 130-120

This Week: 12/27/2020 vs. Orlando Magic, 12/29/2020 vs. Chicago Bulls, 12/31/2020 vs. Chicago Bulls, 1/1/2021 at Minnesota Timberwolves

So far the Washington Wizards and Russell Westbrook look a lot like they did last year. Bradley Beal has gone off for 30+ in back to back games. Thomas Bryant is thriving from having a solid playmaker looking to find him rolling. Westbrook has consecutive inefficient triple-doubles. Still, the Washington Wizards are 0-2.

Defense was the flapping red flag coming into the season and through two games that has not changed. While other teams are able to do enough with efficient offense to overcome those issues, the Wizards have unfortunately not been so lucky. So far the team seems to fit together but they are not doing anything in the way of winning. Hopefully, an easier slate of games this week will help get them on track.

Last Week: Lost to Phoenix Suns 106-102, Lost to the Los Angeles Lakers 138-115

This Week: 12/27/2020 at LA Clippers, 12/30/2020 vs. Charlotte Hornets, 1/1/2021 vs. Miami Heat

If there was any doubt before these first two games, the Dallas Mavericks sorely miss Kristaps Porzingis. Luka Doncic has been impressive in his first two games and is playing like the MVP many predicted he would heading into the season. The team simply needs more, as is clear following a close loss to the Phoenix Suns and a demoralizing holiday celebration against the Los Angeles Lakers.

There are noticeable improvements to the roster from last year. Josh Richardson is clearly much more comfortable here already and will be a perfect complimentary piece. There is plenty of shooting on the perimeter. But in this Western Conference, Dallas needs to be fully healthy to compete with the best.