Power Rankings, Week 16: Top 10 Remains Firm as Trade Deadline Looms

Four months ago, when NBA decision-makers completed the annual GM Survey, these four players were chosen by the GMs as their preferred choice to start a franchise with.

The Dallas Mavericks had one of those four guys, the 25-year-old who received the most votes on that question in 2021, the guy who led them to the NBA Finals just eight months ago.

And then they traded him late Saturday, not to the highest bidder, but to the only team they talked to … without getting all of the Los Angeles Lakers’ top assets.

Stunning.

Plus-Minus Players of the Week

Right Way: Donovan Mitchell (CLE) was a plus-91 in four games last week.Wrong Way: Kyshawn George (WAS) was a minus-81 in four games last week.

Teams of the Week

Make It Last Forever: Portland (3-0) — Are the Blazers good?Something Just Ain’t Right: Orlando (0-3) — The Magic’s guys are back, but their offense is not.

* * *

East vs. West

The West is 145-110 (.569) against the East in interconference games after going 16-14 last week.

Schedule strength through Week 15

Toughest: 1. Washington, 2. Toronto, 3. Golden StateEasiest: 1. New York, 2. Cleveland, 3. MemphisSchedule strength is based on cumulative opponent record.

* * *

Movement in the Rankings

High jumps of the week: Portland (+4), Golden State (+3)Free falls of the week: Orlando (-6), Atlanta (-4), Sacramento (-3)

* * *

Week 16 Team to Watch

San Antonio — The Spurs have lost nine of their last 12 games, but got a talent upgrade with the addition of De’Aaron Fox, who should join them with some opportunities to get back in the Play-In mix in the West. The annual rodeo trip begins with games in Memphis, Atlanta, Charlotte and Orlando.

* * *

Previously…

Last week: Thunder reign as Rockets bump Cavs for No. 2 spotThe archive: NBA.com Power Rankings

OffRtg: Points scored per 100 possessions (League Rank)
DefRtg: Points allowed per 100 possessions (League Rank)
NetRtg: Point differential per 100 possessions (League Rank)
Pace: Possessions per 48 minutes (League Rank)

The league has averaged 112.9 points scored per 100 possessions and 99.7 possessions (per team) per 48 minutes this season.

NBA.com’s Power Rankings, released every Monday during the season, are just one man’s opinion. If you have an issue with the rankings, or have a question or comment for John Schuhmann, contact him via Bluesky.