The Oklahoma City Thunder maintain their top spot in Week 10 NBA power rankings with a 25-3 record, though recent losses highlight upcoming challenges. The New York Knicks hold second place after strong performances, while the Detroit Pistons showcase resilience with comebacks. Teams prepare for a festive five-game Christmas slate amid trade deadline discussions.
As the NBA season reaches its 34% mark, power rankings from NBA.com and NBC Sports underscore the Oklahoma City Thunder's dominance at 25-3, leading by a wide margin in net rating (+15.8). However, two losses in their last three games, including offensive struggles at 106.6 points per 100 possessions, signal tougher tests ahead against winning teams. Only five of their first 25 wins came against other sub-.500 teams, and they face the San Antonio Spurs twice this week, including on Christmas.
The New York Knicks sit at 20-8, fresh off an Emirates NBA Cup championship, with depth shining through players like Jalen Brunson (47 points in a recent MSG win) and bench contributors Jordan Clarkson and Tyler Kolek. Their corner three-point shooting leads the league at 5.3 per game. The Detroit Pistons (22-6) top the East with eight wins after trailing by double digits, outscoring opponents by 13.9 points in the paint.
Other notables include the Denver Nuggets (20-7), dealing with injuries but splitting with Houston, and the Houston Rockets (17-9), slipping after overtime losses despite top-four rankings on both ends. The San Antonio Spurs (21-7) have won six straight regular-season games post-Cup final, bolstered by Victor Wembanyama's return.
NBC Sports adds a Christmas twist, gifting the Thunder more wins toward a potential record, the Knicks playoff grit, and the Pistons a secondary creator. Trade talks heat up, but experts urge the Thunder to stay put, relying on internal growth from Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell. The West leads interconference play 62-48 (.564), setting up intense holiday matchups.
