NBA Power Rankings Week 17: A new number one and a lot of injuries

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 14: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers guards Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets in the second quarter at the Wells Fargo Center on April 14, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

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Previous: 8th. Milwaukee Bucks. 6. team. 89. . 35-21

Last Week: Beat Orlando Magic 124-87, Beat Minnesota Timberwolves 130-105, Beat Atlanta Hawks 120-109, Lost to Memphis Grizzlies 128-115

This Week: 4/19 vs. Phoenix Suns, 4/22 vs. Philadelphia 76ers, 4/24 vs. Philadelphia 76ers

Despite the confusing loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, the Milwaukee Bucks are still one of the hottest teams in the league this season. That was just their ninth loss at home this season and they are on pace for another top seed heading into the postseason, where they will ultimately prove whether this season has been a success or not.

Rolling along like the well-oiled machine that they are, nine Bucks averaged more than six points per game this week. This is the balanced attack that has become such a struggle for teams to contend with. Giannis Antetokounmpo had a quieter week by his standards, averaging just 21.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.5 steals in the two games he appeared in.

The beauty of the Bucks is even on the nights where the two-time MVP is unavailable, they have more than enough talent to beat most teams. He sat out against the Timberwolves and Khris Middleton went off for 27 points to lead six Bucks in double figures. Against the Magic, six Bucks scored at least 11 points again. Combined with an elite defense, the Bucks are somehow flying under the radar as one of the biggest threats in the league.