nba.com Mvp Race Rookie Reace Power Ranikngs Dunk Ladder

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1

Chris Paul : Los Angeles Clippers

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 25.3 ppg | 5.3 rpg | 12.7 apg | 1.7 spg

As impressive as Paul's work was during the Clippers' franchise-record 17-game win streak, his work in their five games since has been more remarkable. L.A. dropped two straight after the streak and have since kicked off another streak, three games and counting, with Paul averaging 21.8 points on 55 percent shooting and 41 percent from 3-point range with 10 apg, 4.8 rpg and 1.6 spg. He dished out a season-high 16 assists to go with 19 points, five rebounds, two steals  in Wednesday's win over the Mavericks.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Double-double against Mavs
•  Scores 27 against Warriors
•  Leads way in win over Lakers
• > Paul's쟳tats & bio

2

Kevin Durant : Oklahoma City Thunder

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 25.8 ppg | 7.0 rpg | 5.3 apg | 1.3 bpg

Durant's relentless approach should be on full display Friday night (10:30 ET, ESPN) against the Los Angeles Lakers, whose struggles have been well documented. For a volume scorer, Durant is shooting the lights out this season at 52 percent. He's been on a particular tear lately, shooting 56 percent and averaging 26.0 ppg in his last five games. Still, what's been most impressive about his game has been his work on both ends of the floor and -- including 2.0 spg in his last five games.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Rips Wolves for 26 points
•  Notches 29 in loss to Wizards
•  Goes for 22 against Raptors
•  Efficient 26 points vs. Sixers
• > Durant's stats & bio

3

LeBron James : Miami Heat

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 22.8 ppg | 7.0 rpg | 5.5 apg | 1.0 bpg

His streak of 20-point games came to an abrupt end  in Thursday night's loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, the Heat's fifth loss in their last eight games. James has been as steady as could be on a team that lacks size and depth in the post. They've stayed above the fray this season largely by overwhelming the opposition with the play of James and Dwyane Wade in transition. But their deficiencies seem to finally be catching up to them right now.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Near triple-double in Portland
•  Held to 22 in loss to Indiana
•  Notches 24 in win vs. Wizards
•  Scores 35 in loss to Bulls
• > James'쟳tats & bio

4

Carmelo Anthony : New York Knicks

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 30.0 ppg | 4.5 rpg | 5.5 apg | 1.0 spg

Another missed game, this one a one-game suspension for his postgame altercation near the bus with Celtics star Kevin Garnett, cost Anthony and the Knicks  in Thursday's loss to the surging Indiana Pacers. If the Knicks are going to maintain their position in the Eastern Conference standings, they need a focused Anthony to play the way he did earlier this season on the defensive end while continuing to score with the best of them (he's averaging 32.0 ppg in his last 10 games to go along with 5.4 rpg and 3.2 apg).

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Drops�20 in chippy loss to Celts
•  Goes for 40 as Knicks edge Magic
• > Anthony's쟳tats & bio

5

Zach Randolph : Memphis Grizzlies

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 19.0 ppg | 9.0 rpg | 1.3 apg | 1.7 spg

If the Grizzlies are a legitimate challenger for the Western Conference crown, they'll need more of the Randolph we've seen lately. It's the Z-Bo who notched his league-leading 23rd double-double in a win over the Golden State Warriors that the Grizz need. Memphis went 3-0 on its road trip and hosts the San Antonio Spurs tonight (8 ET, League Pass). The Grizz have quietly scrapped their way into a top-four position in the West's playoff chase by working people over in the paint with Randolph, Marc Gasol and one of the league's most potent frontcourt rotations.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Double-double vs. Warriors
•  Scores 17 against Kings
•  Has 21 points, 8 boards vs. Suns
• > Randolph's쟳tats & bio

6

James Harden : Houston Rockets

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 28.5 ppg | 3.5 rpg | 5.5 apg | 3.0 spg

Don't sleep on Harden and the Rockets, who have made a steady climb up the Western Conference standings in the past few weeks. They are 7-3 in their past 10 games and Harden has averaged 28.7 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 3.7 apg and 2.2 spg during that stretch. Harden has put together a strong case for an All-Star bid, provided the Western Conference coaches who pick the reserves do the right thing and reward a player for his production.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Scores 25 as Rockets falter
•  Goes for 31 against Lakers
•  Another 29, this time vs. Cavs
•  Burns Bucks for 29
• > Harden's쟳tats & bio

7

Kobe Bryant : Los Angeles Lakers

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 28.5 ppg | 3.5 rpg | 5.5 apg | 2.0 spg

His most dedicated supporters have to be outraged to see Bryant this low on the list. But with the way his team is performing, Bryant is actually lucky to still be in the top 10 right now. No one is ignoring Bryant's individual production (31.5 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 4.5 apg and 1.3 spg in the Lakers' past 10 games), but the Lakers are still falling. They're on a five-game losing streak and have lost six of their last seven after turning heads with a mid-December five-game win streak that led many of us to believe they were on their way back up.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Scores 27 in loss to Spurs
•  Has 20, but Lakers lose again
•  Drops 38 in loss vs. Clips
•  Pours in 29 vs. Nuggets
• > Bryant's stats & bio

8

Stephen Curry : Golden State Warriors

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 17.0 ppg | 2.0 rpg | 4.5 apg | 1.0 spg

Curry was humbled a bit in a head-to-head matchup with Paul, finishing with just 10 points on 4-for-11 shooting, five assists and no rebounds. But he bounced back with 24, 4 and 4, albeit in a loss to Randolph's Grizzlies. That doesn't change the fact that Curry has been the catalyst (sorry, David Lee) for a team that has charged its way into position to challenge for a top-four seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Good night vs. Memphis
•  Struggles vs. CP3, Clips
• > Curry's stats & bio

9

Tim Duncan : San Antonio Spurs

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 12.3 ppg | 7.7 rpg | 3.7 bpg | 0.3 spg

Duncan is one of several players on this list, Next Five included, who you could argue has a teammate (Tony Parker) who deserves his spot as much as he does. While Parker leads the Spurs in scoring and assists, Duncan leads them in rebounds (9.5) and blocks (2.6). While they both have a place on this list, Duncan's consistency and production at his age have been nothing short of remarkable.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  All-around solid night vs. Lakers
•  Quiet night vs. Hornets
•  Scores 16 vs. Sixers
• > Duncan's stats & bio

10

Josh Smith : Atlanta Hawks

STATS FROM LAST WEEK (1/4-1/10): 17.5 ppg | 8.5 rpg | 3.3 bpg | 1.3 spg

The Hawks' four-game losing skid certainly hurts Smith's position, but it does not knock him out of the top 10. As of Friday, the Hawks are still among the top four teams in the Eastern Conference with Smith producing at a high level (18.6 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 4.8 apg and 3.4 bpg) despite the Hawks dealing with injury issues, backcourt inconsistency and a longstanding need for more frontcourt depth.

IN LAST WEEK'S GAMES (Jan. 4-10):

•  Scores 17 in loss to Cavs
•  Double-double vs. Wolves
•  Held in check vs. Celts
•  Scores 20 in loss to Pistons
• > Smith's stats & bio

Current Rankings

Rank	Status	Player
1		Chris Paul
2		Kevin Durant
3		LeBron James
4	--	Carmelo Anthony
5		Zach Randolph
6		James Harden
7		Kobe Bryant
8	--	Stephen Curry
9	--	Tim Duncan
10	--	Josh Smith

1

Damian Lillard : PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS

No one's close to knocking Lillard from the top rung here, and NBA.com's stats expert, John Schuhmann, shows just how important he is to the Blazers. According to the +/- numbers, "the offensive drop-off that the Trail Blazers have suffered when Lillard has stepped off the floor has been greater than the drop-off that any other team has suffered when a specific player goes to the bench." This rookie's the real deal.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 6 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• Inside the NBA on Lillard
• Game-winner vs. Hornets
• Lillard's Top 10
• Blazers.com feature
• The Beat: Talkin' Lillard
• Lillard's monster dunk

2

Bradley Beal : WASHINGTON WIZARDS

Not only did Beal  hit the game-winner to beat the Thunder, but he came up clutch three nights earlier in a double-OT loss to the Nets. Down three in the first OT, Beal hit a deep 3-pointer to send the game into double-OT and then hit a pair of free throws with 9.1 seconds to play to tie the game up. Of course, Joe Johnson followed that by hitting the game-winner for Brooklyn, but it just goes to show that Beal was just warming up for his big moment against the Thunder.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 3 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• Beal's big December
• Beal's game-winner
• After Las Vegas finale
• Gets to rim for layup
• Talks about SL debut
• Draft prospect profile

3

Alexey Shved : MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES

Shved capped off a nice week Tuesday with another fine all-around performance. In the Wolves' 108-103 win over Atlanta, the Russian had 15 points, seven assists, two steals and two blocks in 41 minutes of action. That followed a 1-for-11 shooting night in a loss to Portland, but he still averaged 11.7 points and 5.2 assists in the last four games.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: Undrafted free agent

related videos

• Hits three, draws foul

4

Andre Drummond : DETROIT PISTONS

Drummond is still doing his thing on the boards (8.2 per game over last four), but he's also starting to pick things up defensively. The Pistons' big man has averaged 2.5 blocks over the last four games with at least two blocks in each of those games. Drummond is a beast, and his potential is clear.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 9 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• NBA Rooks feature

5

Anthony Davis : NEW ORLEANS HORNETS

After a pair of less-than-spectacular games, Davis finally had a nice showing. The No. 1 pick had 17 points, nine rebounds, three steals and a block as the Hornets beat the Spurs 95-88 on Monday. I have a feeling having Eric Gordon back doing his thing will only help open things up for Davis.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 1 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• Davis' career night
• GameTime: Debut analysis
• NBA Rooks: Davis

6

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist : CHARLOTTE BOBCATS

Kidd-Gilchrist has found his rebounding ways of late, averaging 8.7 over his last three games, while putting up 13.3 points in that span. He's only played two games since coming back from a scratched cornea, going 6-for-20 from the floor in those games. MKG has slid a bit since settling at the No. 2 rung early in the season, but if he can get back to his ways of shining on defense and the boards, he'll climb back up the Ladder soon enough.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 2 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• MKG's breakout game
• Two-handed flush
• Preview: Expectations
• College highlights

7

Harrison Barnes : GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS

Barnes fell off the Ladder two weeks ago after struggling through much of December, but makes his way back as he's been a big contributor in recent Warriors wins. Barnes has scored in double-digits in the last four games and five of the last six, averaging 11.5 points in those six games. He's done it by finding his shooting touch, shooting 50 percent from the field and 42.8 percent (6-for-14) from three-point land. If the Warriors keep winning and Barnes keeps contributing like he has of late, he should skyrocket up the Ladder.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 7 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• Big dunk on Pekovic
• Talks about쟟eating Wolves
• Big dunk on break
• First NBA bucket
• NBA Rooks: Warriors

8

John Henson : MILWAUKEE BUCKS

The Bucks' top pick has been a beast in the new year, and earns a return to the Ladder for the first time since Summer League. Henson has had his moments, but never as consistent as his recent play. In his last four games, Henson is averaging 12.2 points and 12.0 rebounds while seeing increased playing time. The UNC product played 19 minutes in Tuesday's win (12 points, 11 rebounds) and new coach Jim Boylan seems intent on giving Henson more playing time. If he continues to put up double-double numbers, he could stick around the Ladder.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 14 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• After Vegas finale
• Nice fadeaway jumper
• Henson, Barnes courtside
• All-access: Henson's debut

9

Jared Sullinger : BOSTON CELTICS

Sullinger has been hovering in the "just missed the cut" section almost all season, putting up decent numbers off the bench in Boston. But it's time to finally give Sullinger a rung on the Ladder. The Ohio State product has been big in the Celts' three-game winning streak, averaging 8.3 points and 8.0 rebounds while crashing the offensive boards (10 of his 24 rebounds were on offense). Sullinger hasn't put up mind-boggling numbers, but his contributions for a team fighting to stay in the playoff hunt can't be overlooked.
-- Jan. 9

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 21 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• NBA Rooks: All-access look
• GameTime: On Sullinger
• Talks to NBA TV about SL
• Draft prospect profile
• College highlights

10

Dion Waiters : CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

Waiters is scoring in the new year, despite coming off the bench, averaging 15.0 points in four games. Still, his struggles from three-point land continue. After shooting 20.7 percent in December, it's been more of the same in January as the Syracuse guard is 2-for-10 through four games. Waiters seems to be most helpful when he's aggressive and gets to the rim and when you're struggling with your shot, there's no better cure.
-- Jan. 9i

RELATED LINKS

• Player page: Complete statistics | Video
• Draft pick: No. 4 overall, 2012 Draft

related videos

• Outburst against Clippers
• Monster dunk vs. Wizards
• Preview: Waiters, Zeller
• NBA Rooks: Cavs' duo

1		Oklahoma City (29-8) Pace: 95.1 (8), OffRtg: 110.2 (1), DefRtg: 99.8 (6), NetRtg: +10.4 (1) The Thunder began last week with an embarrassing loss in Washington, but ended it by ending the Blazers' nine-game home winning streak without Serge Ibaka or Thabo Sefolosha and with Russell Westbrook shooting 5-for-21. It was a coming-out party for DeAndre Liggins, who scored 11 points and grabbed nine boards in 40 minutes, more than twice as many as he'd played all season.
Last week: 3

2		San Antonio (29-11) Pace: 96.9 (3), OffRtg: 106.9 (5), DefRtg: 98.5 (4), NetRtg: +8.4 (3) After another tough matchup with the Grizzlies, the Spurs' offense is scoring just 94 points per 100 possessions in six games against the other three teams in the West's top four. More concerning is Manu Ginobili's hamstring injury, which comes at a time when he was just starting to show some consistency. He averaged 17.0 points on 30-for-59 shooting in his last five games.
Last week: 1

3		L.A. Clippers (28-9) Pace: 94.5 (13), OffRtg: 107.5 (4), DefRtg: 98.4 (3), NetRtg: +9.1 (3) The Clippers have the best second unit in the league, so integrating Grant Hill into the mix is not an easy task for Vinny Del Negro. The Clips also have just four home losses, but three of the four are to the Cavs, Hornets and Magic. They play another bad team - Washington - at home on Saturday, but first will be tested on a trip through Memphis, Houston and Minnesota.
Last week: 2

4		Denver (23-16) Pace: 96.8 (4), OffRtg: 105.3 (7), DefRtg: 102.1 (14), NetRtg: +3.3 (7) Though they couldn't really stop Orlando's 20th-ranked offense or score against Cleveland's 28th-ranked defense last week, the Nuggets are taking advantage of this home-heavy stretch of schedule. They've won five straight, outscoring their opponents by an average of 22.0 points in the paint. Nine different Nuggets have scored at least 14 points in one of the games during the streak.
Last week: 7

5		Miami (24-11) Pace: 93.7 (18), OffRtg: 109.3 (2), DefRtg: 102.0 (13), NetRtg: +7.3 (4) The Heat's two-big starting lineup (with Udonis Haslem as the fifth guy) has actually been better offensively than its one-big starting lineup (Shane Battier), but rebounding continues to be an issue. They've allowed 49 offensive boards and 53 second chance points in the first three games of their road trip, which continues with visits to Utah, Golden State and L.A. (to face the Lakers).
Last week: 4

6		Memphis (24-11) Pace: 92.3 (27), OffRtg: 100.9 (17), DefRtg: 97.0 (2), NetRtg: +3.9 (6) Just when you thought the Grizzlies were slipping, they went and beat the Warriors (on the road) and Spurs, even though they barely scored a point per possession in either game. That made Saturday's stinker in Dallas -- the only time this season the Grizz have failed to force double-digit turnovers -- easier to absorb. Now they have the Clippers and Spurs (again) this week.
Last week: 10

7		Golden State (23-13) Pace: 96.3 (6), OffRtg: 104.4 (10), DefRtg: 101.3 (11), NetRtg: +3.1 (8) Wednesday's loss to the Grizzlies kept the Warriors firmly in fifth place in the West, but Sunday's loss in Denver has the Nuggets right on their heels. Both made it clear that transition defense is an issue, as they allowed 37 total fast break points in the two games after allowing 42 in their home-and-home with the Clippers. They're 3-8 when they allow 17 or more, with the Heat up next.
Last week: 5

8		New York (24-13) Pace: 93.2 (22), OffRtg: 108.9 (3), DefRtg: 103.1 (18), NetRtg: +5.8 (5) The Knicks certainly miss Raymond Felton, but their defense, which ranked 20th in December and ranks 22nd in January, started regressing well before Felton was lost to a broken finger ... or before Rasheed Wallace was lost with a foot injury. But now they could get Iman Shumpert back for Thursday's game in London, and that's a guy who can really help them defend the perimeter.
Last week: 6

9		Brooklyn (22-15) Pace: 90.4 (29), OffRtg: 104.5 (9), DefRtg: 103.1 (17), NetRtg: +1.5 (12) The Nets' schedule gets tougher now, but they handled the first test on Sunday, coming back to beat the Pacers. It was especially encouraging in that they scored 97 points (thanks mostly to 31 trips to the line) in a slow-paced game against the No. 1 defense in the league. Joe Johnson, who has shot 18-for-37 from 3-point range in January, makes his return to Atlanta on Wednesday.
Last week: 13

10		Indiana (23-15) Pace: 92.2 (28), OffRtg: 98.0 (29), DefRtg: 95.7 (1), NetRtg: +2.3 (10) The Pacers shut down both the Heat and Knicks last week, with Paul George coming up with big performances (53 points and 22 boards total) against two MVP candidates. They're clearly a top team in the East, but they're now 1-7 in road games against other East playoff teams after Sunday's loss in Brooklyn. The good news is that they don't visit another East playoff team until March 10th.
Last week: 9

11		Houston (21-17) Pace: 99.3 (1), OffRtg: 105.0 (8), DefRtg: 103.4 (20), NetRtg: +1.6 (11) Where did the Rockets' offense go? Though James Harden continues to put up consistent and efficient numbers, they've been held to just 93 points per 100 possessions as they've lost three straight. Jeremy Lin has shot 10-for-34 during the streak, but he's not alone on the wrong side of 40 percent and the Houston bench was more to blame for Saturday's loss in Philadelphia.
Last week: 8

12		Boston (19-17) Pace: 93.4 (20), OffRtg: 100.8 (18), DefRtg: 100.7 (9), NetRtg: +0.1 (15) Let us all vow to never doubt the importance of Avery Bradley, who needed no time to restore the Celtics' mojo and get them playing their best basketball of the season. The defense has been strong of late, whether or not Kevin Garnett has been on the floor. Now, the Charlotte Bobcats are the only thing standing in the way of the Celtics' first six-game winning streak since Dec. of 2010.
Last week: 17

13		Milwaukee (19-17) Pace: 96.4 (5), OffRtg: 99.6 (25), DefRtg: 100.4 (7), NetRtg: -0.8 (16) Interim coaches Bernie Bickerstaff, P.J. Carlesimo and Jim Boylan are now a combined 15-3. The Bucks are 3-1 under Boylan and scoring almost 107 points per 100 possessions in the four games. Brandon Jennings (65) has attempted just three more shots from the field than Monta Ellis (62) in the Boylan era, but has scored 41 more points (98-57) and dished out 10 more assists.
Last week: 15

14		Chicago (20-15) Pace: 93.0 (24), OffRtg: 100.2 (22), DefRtg: 99.0 (5), NetRtg: +1.2 (14) Chicago was 62-12 at the United Center over the last two seasons. This year, it's 10-10 and one of only two teams with a better point differential on the road (NetRtg: +2.4) than at home (+0.3). Saturday's beatdown by the Suns was the latest example of the Bulls rolling over in their own building, where they'll host the Hawks on Monday in a big game between two second-tier East teams.
Last week: 12

15		Atlanta (21-15) Pace: 93.7 (17), OffRtg: 101.8 (14), DefRtg: 100.6 (8), NetRtg: +1.2 (13) A big fourth quarter got them a win against Utah on Friday, but the Hawks lost five of their last six and have the 26th ranked offense in January. They're shooting well, but their other numbers (offensive boards, free throws, turnovers) are all weak. So it's probably not a good time for three big games -- vs. Chicago and Brooklyn (x2) -- against teams they're fighting for playoff position with.
Last week: 11

16		Portland (20-17) Pace: 93.3 (21), OffRtg: 101.9 (13), DefRtg: 104.2 (23), NetRtg: -2.3 (21) There's no such thing as garbage time in Portland. Each of the last six and eight of the last nine Blazers games have been determined by six points or less. They've lost two straight, but are still 11-4 in such games. Wesley Matthews' two clutch 3-pointers against the Heat gave them three players with at least six clutch-time threes this season. No other team has more than one.
Last week: 14

17		Utah (20-19) Pace: 94.2 (15), OffRtg: 103.2 (11), DefRtg: 104.1 (22), NetRtg: -0.9 (17) Given their relative stability, the Jazz should really be the favorite to grab that eighth spot in the West. And if they are, they should really prove it over the next four weeks. Though they haven't shown much consistency on either end of the floor, they've won five of their last seven. And now they play 10 of their next 12 games at home, a stretch that includes a huge home-and-home with Portland.
Last week: 18

18		Minnesota (16-18) Pace: 94.7 (9), OffRtg: 99.9 (24), DefRtg: 101.7 (12), NetRtg: -1.9 (20) The Wolves were able to survive half of November without Kevin Love because they had a top-five defense that month. The defense then ranked seventh in December. And January? 28th. A tough schedule has something to do with the regression, but they allowed the Hornets to shoot 52 percent on Friday. Defense this bad is not going to let them hang around the playoff picture for much longer.
Last week: 16

19		L.A. Lakers (16-21) Pace: 97.5 (2), OffRtg: 106.3 (6), DefRtg: 103.7 (21), NetRtg: +2.6 (9) Mike D'Antoni told his team that Sunday's game against Cleveland was "the first game of the season." So, in D'Antoni's world, the Lakers are the best team in the league, with a perfect record and a plus-20 point differential. Or perhaps Mike Brown should still be L.A.'s head coach, since he never went 1-4 to get himself fired? Some of these entries just write themselves, don't they?
Last week: 19

20		Detroit (14-24) Pace: 92.4 (26), OffRtg: 101.1 (16), DefRtg: 102.9 (15), NetRtg: -1.8 (19) The Pistons didn't get the call they needed at the end of Saturday's loss to the Jazz, but the bigger issue was another scoring drought: two points in six-plus minutes in the third quarter. If it weren't for that drought and one against the Bobcats six days earlier, Detroit would be heading to London having won nine of their last 10. The Knicks will test their improved defense on Thursday.
Last week: 20

21		Toronto (14-23) Pace: 92.5 (25), OffRtg: 103.0 (12), DefRtg: 104.2 (24), NetRtg: -1.2 (18) The Raptors certainly aren't out of the playoff picture at this point, but they could have made things a lot more interesting if they didn't blow a 20-point lead to eighth-place Milwaukee on Sunday. They're now 2-7 against the nine teams ahead of them in the East, with three games against that group this week. Ed Davis had 20 and 12 on Sunday and is averaging 12.4 and 7.6 as a starter.
Last week: 22

22		New Orleans (11-26) Pace: 90.3 (30), OffRtg: 100.7 (19), DefRtg: 105.9 (27), NetRtg: -5.2 (26) It took too long, but the Hornets are finally looking like the defensive team we thought they'd be this season. They allowed just 96 points per 100 possessions over their four-game winning streak, which was anything but hollow, because it included defensive wins over the Spurs and Rockets on Monday and Wednesday. Their new starting lineup has been pretty bad offensively, though.
Last week: 25

23		Philadelphia (16-22) Pace: 93.1 (23), OffRtg: 99.2 (26), DefRtg: 103.1 (16), NetRtg: -3.9 (23) Starting with Saturday's streak-breaking win over the Rockets, the Sixers play in just two cities -- Philly (12 games) and Milwaukee (two games) -- until the All-Star break. So if they have any shot at fighting for that eighth spot in the East (maybe Milwaukee will fade), they've got to string some wins together right now. Not they've been that great (10-8, -1.5 NetRtg) at home thus far this season.
Last week: 23

24		Sacramento (13-24) Pace: 94.6 (12), OffRtg: 101.4 (15), DefRtg: 108.5 (30), NetRtg: -7.1 (27) Nine days ago, the Kings had won six of their last nine games. Now, they've allowed an atrocious 126 points per 100 possessions during a four-game losing streak. That run has earned them the Worst Defense in the League title, and if they're still No. 30 in defense after games against the Cavs, Wizards, Grizzlies and Bobcats this week, they may stay there all year.
Last week: 21

25		Dallas (15-23) Pace: 96.2 (7), OffRtg: 100.3 (21), DefRtg: 104.4 (25), NetRtg: -4.1 (24) Dirk or no Dirk, the biggest difference between this year's Mavs and the last couple of seasons is the defense (or lack thereof) they're getting from the center position. There was a little drop-off from Tyson Chandler to Brendan Haywood, but not nearly as bad as the drop-off from Haywood to Chris Kaman. The Mavs are allowing almost 107 points per 100 possessions with Kaman on the floor.
Last week: 26

26		Orlando (13-23) Pace: 93.9 (16), OffRtg: 100.6 (20), DefRtg: 103.2 (19), NetRtg: -2.6 (22) The Magic's losing streak wasn't supposed to end in L.A. against the Clippers, but J.J. Redick's shooting and defense down the stretch made them the only visitor with two wins at Staples Center this season. Redick is 14-for-26 on threes in his last three games and is a prime candidate to help a contender down the stretch, but he's not so old that he can't be a part of Orlando's future.
Last week: 24

27		Phoenix (13-26) Pace: 94.4 (14), OffRtg: 100.1 (23), DefRtg: 105.2 (26), NetRtg: -5.1 (25) Alvin Gentry finally freed Michael Beasley from exile on Saturday, and Beasley helped the Suns end their five-game losing streak with 20 points (in just 21 minutes) on 10-for-14 shooting in Chicago. It was just the second time in Beasley's career (314 games) that he had at least 10 buckets in fewer than 15 attempts. Stay tuned to see how long he can stay out of the dog house.
Last week: 27

28		Cleveland (9-30) Pace: 94.7 (10), OffRtg: 98.2 (28), DefRtg: 106.3 (28), NetRtg: -8.0 (28) The Cavs got a nice win (behind a ridiculously efficient 33 points from Kyrie Irving) over the Hawks on Wednesday, but got crushed on the boards in Chicago and Denver and just crushed in L.A. on Sunday. Anderson Varejao's absence has thrown rookie Tyler Zeller into the fire. He had some nice games at the end of December, but has shot a brutal 32 percent in January.
Last week: 28

29		Washington (6-28) Pace: 93.7 (19), OffRtg: 93.2 (30), DefRtg: 101.3 (10), NetRtg: -8.1 (29) John Wall's return was encouraging. He had three assists to backcourt-mate Bradley Beal, knocked down a couple of mid-range jumpers, used his speed to get to the bucket, and scored or assisted on eight of the Wizards' final 10 points, as they held off the Hawks to put together their first winning streak of the season. They can make it three in a row on Monday against the Magic.
Last week: 30

30

Charlotte (9-27) Pace: 94.7 (11), OffRtg: 99.1 (27), DefRtg: 108.3 (29), NetRtg: -9.2 (30) If you're a Bobcats season ticket holder, you haven't seen your team win a game in person since the day before Thanksgiving. The Cats play five of their next seven at Time Warner Cable Arena, but if you're going to see another home victory before Valentine's Day, it might have to happen on Saturday, when the Kings come to town. Otherwise, only good teams are visiting.

1

Here, You Take It : Dec. 17, 2012

There's none of the "Did he touch the rim or not?" or "Was it an offensive foul?" talk this time around. This is just pure athleticism and power as Blake Griffin throws down a thunderous game-closing alley-oop.

RELATED VIDEOS

•  From all angles
•  Up, up and away

2

Bay Areaaaaa : Nov. 24, 2012

Let's see... Powerful facial? Check. Added impact from jumping off two feet? Check. Glaring stare-down that suggests a "Now what?" mentality? Check. The real kicker? As Top Plays Ladder CEO Zettler Clay observes, the bench reaction was everything.

RELATED VIDEOS

•  From all angles
•  On the break

3

Welcome Back : Nov. 14, 2012

It would be an understatement to say it's refreshing to see Jeff Green back in NBA action after having heart surgery and missing all of last season. I imagine it takes a lot of heart to detonate on heads like he did to Al Jefferson. Glad to see you back, Jeff.

RELATED VIDEOS

•  More poster action
•  Baseline boom

4

Byron's Mulligan : Dec. 3, 2012

One of the first lessons every young basketball player is taught is to follow their shot. Charlotte's stretch big man Byron Mullens takes heed of the teaching and turns the rebound into a Kodak moment for LaMarcus Aldridge.

5

Wind Me Up : Dec. 21, 2012

Experienced readers of the Dunk Ladder know that I love to see windmill dunks with a full arm extension ( see Dominique Wilkins at No. 7). Terrence Ross proves that he's more than capable in his Ladder debut.

RELATED VIDEO

•  Big putback
•  Drops the hammer

6

What Up, Cuz : Nov. 9, 2012

There's nothing more that I love to see on a basketball floor than the in-your-face, total-disregard-for-your-opponent facial. We're very appreciative for this, DeMarcus Cousins. Fortunately for Danny Green, he  didn't dwell on the assault for too long. Good for him.

RELATED VIDEOS

•  Get big!
•  Pump and drive
•  More steal and slam

7

Inspirational Flight : Nov. 7, 2012

We're willing to bet that DeAndre Jordan attempted many of Michael Jordan's dunks on a Nerf rim as a kid. The youthful practice might have paid off after seeing this one. Does the cradle rock look somewhat familiar?  Check the :33 mark and you be the judge.

RELATED VIDEOS

•  Capping the break
•  No one around
•  Sneaker, meet net

8

No Limit Soldier : Nov. 10, 2012

DeMar DeRozan, arguably one of the most underrated dunkers in the league, kicks off his 2012-13 Dunk Ladder campaign with a see-you-on-the-other-side jam. Salute, Mr. DeRozan. We're sure we'll see you again soon.

RELATED VIDEOS

•  Lob and slam
•  Overtime stuff

9

Having Flashbacks : Nov. 12, 2012

Two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion Jason Richardson turns back the clock with an open-court 360-degree slam. It seems like we don't see many of these dunks anymore, so hats off to J-Rich for the quasi old school throwdown.

10

Kiss Off The Glass : Dec. 14, 2012

We may not be too versed on the kind of street basketball being played in Italy, but if it's anything like this Danilo Gallinari dunk, send the cameras over. We're missing out!

 

[MDE87ER]

저번주에 이미 한번 올라왓엇던 랭크죠?

[LAL-브라이언Kim]

이미 올린 사람이 있나요?

[MDE87ER]

음, MVP 레이스 밑으로는 제가 별 관심이 없어서 잘 모르겠지만 MVP 레이스는 저번주에 한번 올라왔던 것 같네요, 선수들 순위나 평균 기록이 일치해요.
만약 이게 제가 봣던 자료가 아니구 새로 업뎃된 랭킹이라면 Rank Status가 폴 순위가 업이 아니고 동률일텐데 말이죠. 저번주도 MVP 레이스 1위였으니깐요.

[√. 승리]

팀 파워랭킹은 최신것 같은데 MVP 랭킹은 확실히 지난주꺼네요 ^^ㅎ 아마 이번주 발표되면 듀랜트가 1위일껍니다. 최근 듀랜트가 엄청난 활약이 계속 되었거든요.. 팀 성적도 후보들중 가장 좋았구요.

[smilemelo]

폴이 타면 상징적이겠네요. 스포 삼대장을 누르고

[smilemelo]

덴버 쭉쭉 오르네요. 역시 연속으로 홈경기를 가지면서 연승한게 ㅎ

[luckyguy]

설리의 등장!!

[[세상의떨거지]]

덴버가 파워랭킹이 무지 높내여.....

[Team Denver]

덴버 연승가자!! ㅎㅎㅎㅎ

[KOGLBJ]

no1슈팅가드 하든~ㅋ 이제 정말 이런 랭킹에서도 코비보다 위에 서기 시작하네요

[R.Westbrook]

브래들리 빌...퓨어 슈팅가드로 성공했으면 좋겠군요~!