Author: Paul Hudrick / Source: NBC Sports Philadelphia
The Raptors continue to roll, the Celtics are starting to figure things out and the Sixers may need to make a move to keep pace.
Here’s the latest edition of our NBA Eastern Conference power rankings.
1. Raptors (21-5) Last week: 1
The Raptors just continue to roll, winning nine out of their last 10 and with Kawhi Leonard looking a legit MVP candidate.
2. Bucks (16-7) Last week: 2
The Bucks have come down to earth a little bit, but Giannis Antetokounmpo may be the early favorite for the MVP award. Unlike Toronto, Milwaukee’s standing is far from safe.
3. Sixers (17-9) Last week: 3
Speaking of MVP candidates, Joel Embiid’s “rest” game Friday night appears needed. He’s really struggled in his last three games and looked gassed vs. the Raptors. He’s playing a ton of minutes at an extremely high level so it’s not a surprise. The bigger concern is the Sixers’ bench, which lacks scoring and athleticism.
4. Celtics (14-10) Last week: 4
The Celtics are starting to get their act together, which is bad news for the Sixers and the rest of the East. The insertion of Marcus Smart and Marcus Morris to the starting lineup has given Boston a boost. Gordon Hayward also looks to be regaining his form off the bench.
5. Pistons (13-9) Last week: 7
The Pistons won five straight before losing their last two. With Detroit, it seems like they take care of business against bad teams but struggle to…
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