Week 9 Power Rankings: Rockets, Pistons, Knicks Climb Higher
The NBA’s Week 9 Power Rankings reveal significant movement among the league’s teams as the season progresses. The New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets are gaining traction, while some traditional powerhouses face challenges.
Rising Teams in Week 9
New York Knicks
- Record: 18-7
- Last Week’s Rank: 7
- Offensive Rating: 122.0
- Defensive Rating: 113.3
The Knicks have secured their spot in the Emirates NBA Cup final, riding a wave of success by winning nine of their last ten games. Jalen Brunson has been instrumental, totaling 75 points over two crucial games.
San Antonio Spurs
- Record: 18-7
- Last Week’s Rank: 9
- Offensive Rating: 118.0
- Defensive Rating: 113.8
Without Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs maintained strong performance, going 9-3. However, his return has reignited their defensive strength, aiding them in halting the Thunder’s long winning streak.
Houston Rockets
- Record: 16-6
- Last Week’s Rank: 4
- Offensive Rating: 121.4
- Defensive Rating: 111.0
The Rockets displayed resilience with a narrow win against the Clippers. Their offensive rebounding rate remains the highest in NBA history, which has been a significant factor in their success this season.
Teams Struggling in Week 9
Sacramento Kings
- Record: 6-20
- Last Week’s Rank: 26
- Offensive Rating: 108.5
- Defensive Rating: 119.6
The Kings currently face difficulties, having lost seven of their last eight games. They are looking to overcome their offensive struggles as their season continues.
Brooklyn Nets
- Record: 7-18
- Last Week’s Rank: 25
- Offensive Rating: 112.8
- Defensive Rating: 118.1
The Nets have shown some improvement recently, winning four of their last six games, including a notable victory against the Bucks. However, they remain at the bottom of the standings.
Key Upcoming Games
- Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs – Tuesday
- Rockets vs. Denver Nuggets – Monday
- Pistons vs. Boston Celtics – Monday
As teams continue to adapt and refine their game strategies, the Week 9 Power Rankings underscore the shifting dynamics within the league. Key matchups loom ahead, which could further alter the standings as the season unfolds.
