The holiday season is here, and the 2025-26 NBA season is in full swing. While there are notable injuries, rotations are taking shape for many teams, and we are starting to see which teams could contend by the end of the regular season.
The NBA Player Guessing Game allows you to guess the NBA player based on clues about their team, division, height, jersey number, points, and experience.
1) Oklahoma City Thunder
Last Week’s Ranking: 1
The Oklahoma City Thunder are on pace for a historic win total, boasting a 17-1 start even as injuries have forced several core players, most notably Jalen Williams, to miss time. Dominant on both ends, Oklahoma City leads the league by a wide margin, thanks to suffocating defense, a plus-16.9 point differential, and balanced scoring led by reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren.
Despite ranking No. 15 in 3-point percentage on Basketball Reference and facing a soft schedule, the defending champs remain in the title hunt and appear to be getting stronger. The Thunder already seem to be in a class of their own, and even greater heights may be ahead when Jalen Williams rejoins the lineup.
2) Houston Rockets
Last Week’s Ranking: 2
The Houston Rockets have shaken off a 0-2 start, going 11-2 since and riding one of the NBA’s top offenses to the league’s second-best point differential. Even without floor general Fred VanVleet, the Rockets are thriving thanks to Kevin Durant’s presence, dominant rebounding, and strong contributions from rookie Reed Sheppard.
The Rockets’ offense is firing on all cylinders, and they are dominating the glass with 49.1 rebounds per game. Their point guard depth hasn’t been an issue, and help is on the way with Dorian Finney-Smith set to return soon, giving Houston even more lineup flexibility.
3) Denver Nuggets
Last Week’s Ranking: 4
The Denver Nuggets look like a legitimate challenger to the Thunder in the West, sitting near the top of the league in offensive rating and net rating with Nikola Jokic once again controlling games at an MVP level. His workload feels lighter this year, as a deeper, more veteran bench has allowed him to stay fresher while still letting Denver overwhelm teams in Joker-heavy minutes.
That depth is about to be tested with Christian Braun sidelined for several weeks by a sprained ankle, shifting more responsibility to Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. on the wings. Tim Hardaway has been steady as a stopgap starter, but unlocking a slumping Cameron Johnson would be the cleanest way to keep their early surge rolling.
4) New York Knicks
Last Week’s Ranking: 3
The New York Knicks are 8-1 in front of their home fans this season, solidifying Madison Square Garden as a fortress, even with Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby missing time. Brunson’s 28-point effort in his return was a timely reminder of his importance. Mike Brown’s first real test in New York has so far brought steady answers.
New York had five straight road games, which continued to be a challenge for a team that has struggled to win away from home this season. If the Knicks can translate their home dominance to hostile environments and get fully healthy, they still profile as one of the Eastern Conference’s most credible title threats.
5) Cleveland Cavaliers
Last Week’s Ranking: 5
The Cleveland Cavaliers remain a top contender in the East, hinging on the health of Darius Garland, who has struggled with a toe injury since offseason surgery. His brief return showed promise, but the injury flared up again. With Garland in and out of the lineup, Cleveland holds a top-four standing in the conference and a top-12 net rating, but their offense still searches for a consistent rhythm.
Donovan Mitchell continues an outstanding season, easing the load during Garland’s absences. With Garland back on the floor for now, the Cavs look poised to regain full strength and solidify their status as the team to beat in the conference.
6) Detroit Pistons
Last Week’s Ranking: 8
The Detroit Pistons are on a 13-game winning streak, showcasing elite defense and an offense led by MVP candidate Cade Cunningham and dominant rebounder Jalen Duren. Duren has averaged 20.3 points on 67% shooting and 11.5 rebounds through 15 games. The team remains perfect when leading after three quarters this season.
The Pistons have capitalized on a weaker Eastern Conference, winning all their games against sub-.500 teams and often coming back from double-digit deficits. However, their effectiveness drops when Cade Cunningham is off the floor, highlighting the importance of their young star to sustain this strong start and secure a high playoff seed.
7) Los Angeles Lakers
Last Week’s Ranking: 7
LeBron James made a strong season debut with 12 assists in a win over the Jazz, helping the Lakers extend their winning streak to three and win four of their last five games. While James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves have only played about half the team’s games so far, Los Angeles ranks third in effective field goal percentage, showing impressive efficiency.
The big questions are whether Reaves can sustain his offensive leap once James is fully up to speed, and if a lineup with Doncic, Reaves, and James can combine strong offense with enough defense to make a deep playoff run. With a relatively soft schedule ahead, the Lakers have a chance to build momentum and establish themselves as a serious threat in the Western Conference.
8) Orlando Magic
Last Week’s Ranking: 9
The Orlando Magic have shown signs of turning the corner after a rough 1-4 start, now winning six of their last eight games with an energized offense even amid Paolo Banchero’s groin injury. Their statement victory over the Knicks at Madison Square Garden was a key early-season highlight, signaling potential despite lingering inconsistencies.
Orlando’s identity as a defense-first team remains crucial if they aim to become a serious threat in the East, but they have struggled with opponent shooting luck. The Magic need to tighten their defense to capitalize on the offensive sparks they’ve shown, especially without Banchero on the floor.
9) Minnesota Timberwolves
Last Week’s Ranking: 6
The Minnesota Timberwolves have yet to beat a team above .500, raising questions about their true ranking despite a 10-7 record and strong offensive numbers. They rank ninth in offensive rating, seventh in true shooting percentage, and 10th in 3-point percentage, showing the firepower to fuel future success.
However, Minnesota’s defense, the league’s best last season, slipped to 17th for a stretch this year but has since soared back into the top 10. Uncertainty remains at point guard with Mike Conley’s inconsistent play. For the Timberwolves to realize their potential, the defense must regain its dominance, and the team must start winning against tougher opponents.
10) Atlanta Hawks
Last Week’s Ranking: 11
The Atlanta Hawks have gone 10-4 since Trae Young was sidelined with a sprained MCL, finding new energy through breakout star Jalen Johnson. He has averaged 22.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 7.0 assists this season, and is shooting 41.5% from deep.
Atlanta’s top-10 defense and league-leading assist numbers have powered their recent surge, while Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Dyson Daniels have handled most of the playmaking duties in Young’s absence.
Their loss to Detroit on the second night of a back-to-back did little to dim the optimism surrounding this stretch. The big question is whether this defensive focus and balanced offense will hold when Young returns. If so, Atlanta could prove far more formidable than expected in the East.
11) San Antonio Spurs
Last Week’s Ranking: 10
The San Antonio Spurs’ roster has more high-end talent than most teams, led by MVP and Defensive Player of the Year candidate Victor Wembanyama and the recently returned De’Aaron Fox, but injuries have hampered their rhythm. Wembanyama is sidelined for a few weeks with a calf strain suffered against the Warriors, putting team continuity at risk during a tough upcoming road stretch.
Despite these setbacks, San Antonio showed resilience with key wins over Sacramento, Memphis, and Atlanta, leaning on their defense-first identity and backcourt depth. It will be interesting to see how the Spurs navigate this injury patch, relying on Fox and Stephon Castle while awaiting Wemby’s return to keep pace in the competitive Western Conference.
12) Milwaukee Bucks
Last Week’s Ranking: 12
Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to lead the Milwaukee Bucks, averaging 31.2 points and a career-best 6.8 assists despite the absence of starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr. However, his recent groin injury comes at a difficult time. The Bucks are now two games below .500 and struggling on defense, ranking in the bottom half of the league in defensive efficiency.
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Kyle Kuzma’s return to the starting lineup has boosted the team, and role players like Ryan Rollins and AJ Green have stepped up. Still, the supporting cast remains thin, and Milwaukee’s negative point differential suggests they are closer to average than true contenders. Antetokounmpo’s health and the Bucks’ ability to improve defensively will be key.
13) Golden State Warriors
Last Week’s Ranking: 13
The Golden State Warriors rallied to win three straight games, powered by Stephen Curry’s extraordinary scoring bursts, including back-to-back 40-point outings. They dropped three straight before getting back in the win column against Utah.
Still, there are encouraging signs. Rookie Will Richard’s promotion to the starting lineup with Moses Moody has injected fresh energy. However, relying on a 37-year-old Curry as the primary scorer is not a sustainable model for long-term success.
Coach Steve Kerr’s adjustments aim to balance the lineup for more consistency, but the team’s fatigue and limited scoring options beyond Curry remain concerns. To climb back into serious contention, the Warriors need more reliable contributions while Curry continues to defy age with his electrifying performances.
14) Los Angeles Clippers
Last Week’s Ranking: 14
The Los Angeles Clippers have struggled, plagued by key injuries: Kawhi Leonard has appeared in only six games, and Bradley Beal is sidelined for the year after hip surgery. Aging stars like Chris Paul have fallen out of the rotation, and the team’s pace and defense have slowed, resulting in a disappointing 5-12 start.
Los Angeles has struggled to find wins. The Clippers need more than luck to climb out of the play-in hunt. Head coach Tyronn Lue remains positive, but the current trajectory points toward a high lottery pick they will likely have to transfer to the Thunder.
15) Toronto Raptors
Last Week’s Ranking: 16
The Toronto Raptors have turned their season around, winning 12 of their last 13 games after a shaky 1-4 start. They are among the league leaders in fast-break points and excel at ball movement, led by a core of Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, RJ Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley. Barnes stands out as a near-lock for an All-Star nod given his impact.
Their bench has fueled this hot streak, with Jamal Shead and Sandro Mamukelashvili providing support alongside rookie Collin Murray-Boyles, who has been impressive. Despite the run, it remains uncertain how sustainable this success is.
16) Philadelphia 76ers
Last Week’s Ranking: 15
The Philadelphia 76ers have navigated a challenging start, missing Joel Embiid, and with Paul George just returning from injury. Tyrese Maxey has elevated his game, and rookie VJ Edgecombe is quickly becoming a solid backcourt partner. Meanwhile, Kelly Oubre is enjoying one of his best seasons, with a mix of scoring, defense, and clutch plays.
Philadelphia has gone 4-6 over its last 10 games, but it’s shown an ability to win some close games. The team’s offense appears less dependent on Joel Embiid now, which could help them weather his frequent absences. As they aim to find consistency, their improved roster depth could be key to their playoff hopes.
17) Boston Celtics
Last Week’s Ranking: 18
The Boston Celtics have won six of their last nine games, though their recent opponents haven’t been the toughest. They rank top 10 in both offensive rating and net rating, but inconsistent shooting from key players like Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard has held them back at times.
Despite some bad luck, the Celtics maintain a solid +4.8 net rating. Joe Mazzulla stays committed to a high-volume 3-point offense, but their 35% from deep ranks No. 21 in the league, leading to inconsistent performance. Neemias Queta has been a bright spot, emerging as a vital contributor and bringing stability inside.
18) Miami Heat
Last Week’s Ranking: 17
The Miami Heat have adopted a new offensive approach under Erik Spoelstra, emphasizing urgency and pace, and it’s been successful so far. Ranking first in the league in points scored per game and among the leaders in fast-break points, Miami’s up-tempo style has energized its attack and made it a serious scoring threat.
Although the offense grabs headlines, the Heat’s solid defense, ranked third in the NBA on defensive rating, has been crucial to their wins. They split a four-game stretch against the Cavaliers and Knicks, showing resilience and the ability to hang with the beasts of the East. With Norman Powell emerging as a star, the Heat have been a pleasant surprise, but can this success be sustained with Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo healthy?
19) Portland Trail Blazers
Last Week’s Ranking: 19
The Trail Blazers cooled off with a 1-4 road trip, dampening their hot start. The offense, led by Shaedon Sharpe and Deni Avdija, continues to show promise. Both players are emerging as potential stars with increased roles, but Portland’s defense has sharply regressed from a top-five unit in recent weeks.
Injuries to key guards Scoot Henderson and Jrue Holiday expose Portland’s depth issues, highlighted by inconsistent play when Holiday is absent. Despite a tough stretch with seven losses in 10 games, the Blazers still boast signature wins over Oklahoma City and Denver. They remain on track to secure a play-in spot, thanks to a shaky bottom tier out West.
20) Phoenix Suns
Last Week’s Ranking: 20
The Phoenix Suns have been a pleasant surprise so far, fueled by Devin Booker’s All-NBA level play and solid contributions from Collin Gillespie, who is filling in for the injured Jalen Green. Despite losing Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, Phoenix’s strong team chemistry highlights how much player fit matters.
The Suns have won eight of their last 10 games, ranking in the top 12 on offense and defense this year. Dillon Brooks has emerged as an unexpected scorer, posting back-to-back 30-point games. The Suns’ 3-point shooting, led by veterans Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale, ranks third in the league and has been key to their early-season success.
21) Chicago Bulls
Last Week’s Ranking: 21
The Chicago Bulls have struggled recently, going 4-8 after a strong 5-0 start. Six of those losses came on the road, and two happened with All-Star Josh Giddey sidelined by an ankle injury. Coby White’s return added needed shot creation alongside Giddey and Matas Buzelis, though Chicago still hit a rough patch.
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Their fortunes began to turn with a key win over Denver in Giddey’s second game back and a close victory over Portland. With a favorable upcoming schedule, the Bulls have an opportunity to regain momentum and improve their record after slipping in the standings.
22) Memphis Grizzlies
Last Week’s Ranking: 22
The Memphis Grizzlies are having a rough season under Tuomas Iisalo, with the offense stalling and key stars struggling. Ja Morant is shooting a career-low 35.9% and averaging 17.9 points per game, his lowest since his rookie year. Jaren Jackson Jr. is also underperforming, with his scoring, rebounding, and defensive stats down from previous seasons.
Memphis entered the season with higher hopes, but ongoing issues and Morant’s reported unhappiness have clouded the team’s outlook. After losing 10 of their last 13 games, the Grizzlies seem to be shifting focus toward a high lottery pick, making trade talks around Morant an intriguing storyline.
23) Sacramento Kings
Last Week’s Ranking: 23
The Sacramento Kings are struggling. They posted eight consecutive losses by an average of 23 points, highlighting their defensive and team issues. Their outdated playing style and lack of defensive effort have frustrated fans and created an uncomfortable team environment. Sacramento did get off the skids with recent wins over the Nuggets and the Timberwolves.
Still, head coach Doug Christie’s recent harsh criticisms reflect the team’s ongoing identity crisis and search for a reliable lineup. Once hopeful after their playoff run a few seasons ago, the Kings now face a daunting challenge to recapture that form and rebuild confidence from the fanbase.
24) Charlotte Hornets
Last Week’s Ranking: 24
The Charlotte Hornets have been competitive despite a 4-13 record, pushing tough teams like the Raptors to the brink and taking Milwaukee to overtime with Giannis Antetokounmpo in the lineup. Amid trade rumors about LaMelo Ball, rookie Kon Knueppel has been a standout, leading all rookies in scoring at 19.4 points per game and filling the void left by Brandon Miller’s absence.
Knueppel’s strong offensive play and solid defensive efforts, though still developing, have made him an early candidate for Rookie of the Year. The recent return of Brandon Miller will be crucial for the team’s long-term outlook. With their core still in flux, the Hornets are likely headed back to the lottery.
25) Utah Jazz
Last Week’s Ranking: 26
The Utah Jazz are showing flashes of promise largely thanks to their young talent, including Keyonte George, whose breakout offers hope for the fan base. Lauri Markkanen continues his dominant scoring run, averaging 28.5 points per game on the season and carrying the team offensively.
Despite their competitive spirit and five wins, the Jazz face a complex situation. Utah must balance playing to win with protecting a top-eight pick owed to Oklahoma City, which encourages them to be careful as the season progresses.
26) Indiana Pacers
Last Week’s Ranking: 27
It’s a tough season for the Indiana Pacers. They are battling injuries and losing a lot of games, with Pascal Siakam still logging heavy minutes despite the team’s lost cause. Once an exciting, competitive squad that nearly reached the Finals, the Pacers have now dropped 10 of their last 11 games, with Tyrese Haliburton out for the season due to a torn Achilles.
Despite the struggles, there are hopeful signs. T.J. McConnell has returned from injury, and Bennedict Mathurin is back in the lineup after a strong start. With their 2026 first-round draft pick secured, Indiana should focus on rebuilding around Haliburton when he returns.
27) Dallas Mavericks
Last Week’s Ranking: 25
The Dallas Mavericks are in turmoil, with the recent firing of general manager Nico Harrison marking a low point amid a season of struggles. The lone bright spot has been Cooper Flagg, who has improved significantly since being moved back to his natural position away from the heavy burden of running the offense as a teenager.
With the team imploding, big decisions loom, including the potential trade of Anthony Davis, though Dallas’ ability to find suitors depends on his health. The Mavericks entered the year with high hopes, but ongoing issues and a rocky start have them trending toward another lottery pick. They may have to pivot to rebuilding around Flagg.
28) New Orleans Pelicans
Last Week’s Ranking: 28
The New Orleans Pelicans have shown some promise, with Derik Queen emerging as a potential standout and Jeremiah Fears showing flashes of scoring ability. However, the costly trade that sent away their unprotected 2026 first-round pick to the Hawks looms large, especially as the Pelicans could be headed for a top-three draft slot.
Things worsened when Zion Williamson missed eight straight games. The team went 2-6 during that stretch, leading to the firing of coach Willie Green and the promotion of James Borrego. The Pelicans rank near the bottom of the league in both offense and defense. While they have promising young players in Queen, Fears, and Trey Murphy III, it is hard to get excited.
29) Brooklyn Nets
Last Week’s Ranking: 29
The Brooklyn Nets are deep in rebuilding mode, struggling through a 3-14 start with the league’s second-worst defensive rating at 122.8. Despite Michael Porter Jr. scoring 20-plus points in nine of his last 10 games and career-high usage, the team has been unable to string together a series of wins. Injuries to key players like Cam Thomas have compounded their woes.
The defensive struggles show how far the Nets have to go, but the rebuild is underway. Brooklyn’s focus is clear, as they are tanking to secure a high lottery pick, hoping to find the cornerstone that will guide them back to contention.
30) Washington Wizards
Last Week’s Ranking: 30
The Washington Wizards have fallen into a slump. They lost 14 straight games, including nine by 17 points or more, and they have not been able to stop anyone this season. Washington finally broke the losing streak with a double-digit win over Atlanta. But don’t be fooled: this still looks like a team focused on development instead of immediate success.
Despite the losing streak, there is hope in the young trio of Alex Sarr, Kyshawn George, and Tre Johnson, with Bilal Coulibaly’s return adding further promise. The Wizards are embracing a rebuild, aiming to maximize their position for a high pick in the loaded 2026 draft, making their future more intriguing than many other bottom-tier teams.