Thunder Overtake Cavaliers in NBA Power Rankings Amid Rising Pressure

OKLAHOMA CITY, March 20, 2025 – The Oklahoma City Thunder have officially reclaimed the top position in the NBA Power Rankings with a remarkable record of 57-12. The team surpassed the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are currently experiencing a rare three-game losing streak, as of Thursday.

Analytics had long suggested that the Thunder were outperforming their opponents, making them the league’s most efficient team even before their record corroborated it. Head Coach Mark Daigneault has cultivated a resilient roster that can withstand key player absences, maintaining a disciplined and expansive game plan.

The Thunder’s recent victories include four straight wins and nine out of their last ten games. Players have consistently stepped up, filling in gaps left by absent stars. For instance, when All-Star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sat out, Isaiah Joe scored 21 points, demonstrating the team’s depth.

The Houston Rockets have surged to the second position in the Western Conference thanks to an eight-game winning streak. They, too, have handled key absences well, resting Fred VanVleet for nearly a month while adapting to further challenges, including the temporary unavailability of Amen Thompson. Tari Eason, acting as a fill-in starter, has emerged as a reliable contributor on both ends of the floor.

In stark contrast, the New York Knicks are struggling without their star player, Jalen Brunson, who has been sidelined due to an ankle injury. The Knicks have only managed to win three out of six games in his absence. This included a disappointing defeat against the San Antonio Spurs on March 19, where they were outplayed, emphasizing their struggles without a consistent scoring leader.

Brunson’s imminent return is becoming a pressing concern for the Knicks as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. Knicks Coach Tom Thibodeau announced on Thursday that Brunson has exited his walking boot and is engaging in light shooting, an encouraging sign in his recovery. The initial timeline for his return suggested he could be back by late March or early April, coinciding with the end of the regular season on April 13.

As the playoffs approach, the Thunder’s depth and discipline position them as formidable contenders. However, the Cavaliers must rectify defensive issues, having allowed nearly 124 points per 100 possessions during their losing streak.

Kristaps Porzingis has rejoined the rotation for the Cavaliers following an injury, boasting an impressive average of 24.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and two blocks per game since his return. His impact could be vital for Cleveland as they aim to regain their form.

Meanwhile, the Memphis Grizzlies face challenges without star player Ja Morant, recording a 15-12 record in games without him. Their recent performance, marked by three losses in four games, highlights their need to adapt and rise through the ranks.

The Denver Nuggets achieved a notable victory against the Golden State Warriors despite missing key players. Aaron Gordon stood out by scoring 32 points, showcasing his ability to step up in critical moments.

The Knicks’ recent struggles were starkly highlighted when Sandro Mamukelashvili of the Spurs scored 34 points during a blowout loss. This underlines the defensive vulnerabilities the Knicks are facing without Brunson.

The playoff race intensifies as teams strive for favorable positions. The Los Angeles Lakers are adapting well, clinching three consecutive wins without LeBron James. The Timberwolves continue navigating challenges but are buoyed by a solid overall record in recent games, while the Clippers keep showcasing impressive scoring averages.

Oklahoma City’s continued success underscores their potential playoff readiness, while the Rockets’ resilience and the Knicks’ need for Brunson’s timely return will heavily influence their postseason runs. As teams contending for playoff berths scramble for supremacy, the dynamics of this NBA season are becoming increasingly compelling.