NBA Power Rankings Week 7: The battle for the number one spot

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PHILADELPHIA, PA – OCTOBER 30: Trae Young #11 of the Atlanta Hawks drives to the basket against Tyrese Maxey #0 of the Philadelphia 76ers in the second half at the Wells Fargo Center on October 30, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Hawks 122-94. 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) /

Week 7 NBA power rankings: 15. Charlotte Hornets (13-11)

Rank last week: 9th

Record this past week: 0-2

The Charlotte Hornets, similar to the Timberwolves, are seemingly a team of runs this season. After a hot streak had them in the top ten last week, they are now back down at 15th.

The biggest reason behind that has been their absolutely horrific defense. They have the second-worst defense in the entire league so far this season.

Week 7 NBA power rankings: 14. Atlanta Hawks (12-11)

Rank last week: 11th

Record this past week: 1-1

The Atlanta Hawks have turned things around in a big way since a terrible start to the season. However, an average week has them sliding a few spots in the power rankings.

That being said, Trae Young continues to be on fire, and John Collins has been as well. One good week could be enough to catapult them into the top ten for the first time this year.

Week 7 NBA power rankings: 13. Philadelphia 76ers (12-11)

Rank last week: 19th

Record this past week: 2-1

As predicted last week, Joel Embiid getting back into the swing of things has the Philadelphia 76ers climbing the rankings. They are almost on par with the Hawks, but since they beat Atlanta this past week, they jump them in the power rankings.

Embiid hasn’t been shooting very efficiently, but his presence alone has been enough to help the team improve. Seth Curry has also continued to stay hot on the offensive side of the floor.