NBA Power Rankings Week 2: The rise of the Atlanta Hawks

Last Week: Beat Philadelphia 76ers 118-94, Lost to New York Knicks 95-86, Lost to Indiana Pacers 119-99, Beat Atlanta Hawks 96-91

This Week: 1/4/2021 at Orlando Magic, 1/6/2021 at Orlando Magic, 1/7/2021 at Memphis Grizzlies, 1/9/2021 at Milwaukee Bucks

Are the Cleveland Cavaliers legitimately good? Many were thrown off the scent after back-to-back losses against the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers. Forget about that for a second.

The Cavs have handed losses this week to the Philadelphia 76ers and the Atlanta Hawks, two of the hottest teams in the league. Much of this has to be attributed to the clear leaps made by the backcourt, the affectionately nicknamed SexLand. Collin Sexton in particular has come out demanding apologies from those who doubted him. Through six games he is averaging 26.0 points (10th in the league), 3.7 assists and 2.0 rebounds per game. Darius Garland is the maestro passer this offense needed and is doing just enough to get things done.

Kevin Love getting injured would have been a negative in years past. For a team with far too many big bodies, it might be a blessing in disguise. This team needs to play Larry Nance Jr. more. Andre Drummond is doing what he always does, leading the league in rebounding with a staggering 14.2 per game.

There was always going to be one of the perennial bottom feeders popping with a chance to make a push for the play-in. So far the Cleveland Cavaliers look more than up to that challenge.