NBA Power Rankings: Gaps Tightening At The Top Of Both Conferences

170. Charlotte had worked their way back into the playoff picture, but couldn’t keep their streak going, losing three of four games this week. They lost to the Heat, Pelicans and Bulls, which had to be disappointing. The Hornets have to be in the conversation of the biggest disappointment of the 2017-18 season.. (29-38). Previous: 20th. Charlotte Hornets. 20. team

(29-37). Previous: 19th. Portland Trail Blazers. 19. team. 34. Portland has emerged as the only real threat to the Nuggets for the eighth spot. They had a winnable week, hosting the Sixers and Wizards before traveling to play the Suns. The Trail Blazers split the home games, beating the Sixers in overtime, and losing to the Wizards in overtime. They also split their road games, beating the Suns, then losing to the Pelicans Tuesday night. Portland is two and a half games out. Never count out Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, but they’re running out of time.

24. Chicago had a rough week, losing to the Magic, Rockets, and Celtics, before beating the Hornets. The Bulls brought Rajon Rondo back into the starting line up, against the Hornets, so maybe they’ll figure things out in time to sneak into the playoffs. However, time is running out, and the Bulls have a tough week ahead playing four playoff teams.. (32-35). Previous: 15th. Chicago Bulls. 18. team

The Heat continued their hot steak, winning two out of three games this week. Miami won both their home games against the Hornets and Raptors, before traveling to Indiana and losing to the Pacers. Goran Dragic missed the Pacers game with a black eye which was virtually swollen shut. The Heat have to be one of the favorites to sneak into the playoffs out East. Next week brings winnable games against the Pelicans, Timberwolves, Trail Blazers, and Suns. All at home.. (32-35). Previous: 17th. Miami Heat. 17. team. 110

team. 89. The Bucks were hot, hitting six games on their win streak, and taking over as the eighth seed frontrunner in the East. Next week brings a challenging West coast road trip, with the Bucks playing the Lakers, Clippers, Warriors, and Trail Blazers. Khris Middleton has looked great since returning to the team, but looked a little worn down during the Bucks loss in Memphis. He’s going to be key for any success out West.. (32-34). Previous: 18th. Milwaukee Bucks. 16