NBA Power Rankings: January’s Toughest Schedules Revealed

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

The NBA’s January schedule presents teams with a significant opportunity for strategizing as the trade deadline approaches. With 235 games scheduled, only March has more. This month is pivotal for franchises as they assess their performance and potential adjustments.

January’s Toughest Schedules Revealed

Among the teams facing the toughest schedules this January, the Sacramento Kings lead the pack. They are followed closely by the Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns. Teams will face unique challenges as they navigate a crucial stretch of the season.

Top Five Toughest Schedules

Sacramento Kings: Opponent Winning Percentage (OppPCT) of .555
Indiana Pacers: OppPCT of .553
Phoenix Suns: OppPCT of .545
Cleveland Cavaliers: OppPCT of .540
Memphis Grizzlies: OppPCT of .539

Teams with Easiest Schedules

Conversely, the Orlando Magic and Denver Nuggets are tasked with the most manageable matchups this month. This could be advantageous as they seek to solidify their standings.

Orlando Magic: OppPCT of .421
Denver Nuggets: OppPCT of .428

Key January Trends

January is also notable for teams’ rest advantage statistics. Historically, teams perform better when they enter games with rested rosters. This month, teams have a record of 60-54 in rest-advantage matchups.

Significant Matchups to Watch

Several key contests will take place throughout January, particularly among teams with strong or weak records against their opponents:

The Cleveland Cavaliers host two critical games against the Orlando Magic.
The Detroit Pistons are on a six-game homestand, starting January strong.
The Indiana Pacers face a tough gauntlet with games against top contenders.

Rest Disadvantage Insights

Some teams, like the Brooklyn Nets and Miami Heat, have multiple rest-disadvantage games scheduled, which could impact their performance. The Nets specifically face challenges against teams ranked low defensively.

As teams prepare to enter January, the landscape of the NBA continues to evolve. By addressing their strengths and weaknesses in the easier or tougher matchups, franchises will play a crucial role in determining their fates as the season progresses.