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

Last Week: Lost to New Orleans Pelicans 113-99, Lost to San Antonio Spurs 119-114

This Week: 12/29/2020 at Philadelphia 76ers, 12/31/2020 vs. New York Knicks, 1/2/2021 at New Orleans Pelicans

Simply put, this is not the same Toronto Raptors team as last season. Whether it be the complete overhaul of their center lineup, small sample size theater or the temporary relocation to Tampa, Florida is tough to say at this point.

Fred VanVleet is doing everything he can to carry this team. The fact that only he and Chris Boucher eclipsed 20 points against the San Antonio Spurs tells you what you need to know. If there is a coach who can figure it out, it is Nick Nurse but right now one of the best stories of last season looks to be out of sorts right now.

Last Week: Beat Miami Heat 113-107, Beat the Washington Wizards 130-120

This Week: 12/27/2020 at Washington Wizards, 12/29/2020 at OKC Thunder, 12/31/2020 vs. Philadelphia 76ers, 1/2/2021 vs. OKC Thunder

Something feels different to start the season for the Orlando Magic. They are playing at an offensive pace that Steve Clifford teams typically do not employ and it has led them to surprising wins over division rivals to begin the year. Terrence Ross is making his case for the Sixth Man of the Week and two starters for the Magic stand out among the rest.

Nikola Vucevic is the steadying presence for this team and watching him continue to add the long-range shot to his game open up the floor to drive into the lane. Markelle Fultz looks to be the main beneficiary, dropping 21 points against the Wizards and leading the team in free-throw attempts. Evan Fournier was the closer for the team in game one and this new offensive philosophy could be just what the team needed.