NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (2024)

We’ve made it three quarters of the way through the 2023-24 season, and we’re shaping up for an unbelievable finish to the regular season, an epic Play-In Tournament (in the West) and an incredible playoff run for two NBA Finals-bound teams. With one quarter left, it’s time to bust out that red pen and throw down some grades on each team through the season.

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We also have the bold predictions we made right before the season, so we’ll update how those are looking. (Spoiler alert: Some of them are really not great!) And, as always, we’ll flawlessly rank all 30 teams without a single disagreement.

And then, as always, we’ll flawlessly rank all 30 teams.

Reminder: The Power Rankings don’t just rank the 30 teams. We divide these teams into tiers, which teams can move in and out of. We currently have the tiers broken into seven new categories:

  • Incomprehensibly bad – These guys are historically inept right now.
  • Not tanking but maybe someday — They haven’t started tanking yet, but it’s on the table this season.
  • Looking to make the Play-In — They’ve been rebuilding/retooling and think they can crack the top 10 in their respective conference.
  • Play-In Tournament teams or better — They should be in the mix unless something disastrous happens.
  • Playoff teams — Probably don’t have to worry about dropping down to the Play-In Tournament.
  • On the brink of contention — A piece away from us believing they can win the title.
  • Contenders — They are contending for the championship, barring a massive injury.

As always, I am sure we will all agree on the placement of all 30 teams, especially your favorite team.

Here’s how the Power Rankings work:

  • It’s up to my discretion how the rankings shake out. For some teams, they’ll be hit in the short term. Others will be given the benefit for the long term. Yes, it is entirely subjective.
  • If I have a team ahead of another team, there’s no reason to ask why they’re ranked above the team you like. The answer is pretty simple: I think that team is set up better for success.
  • Yes, I watch the games. And yes, I watch your favorite team.
  • This is supposed to be fun, so let’s have fun.

With all that said, let’s dive into Week 20 of The Athletic’s NBA Power Rankings. Stats and records are through Monday’s action.

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NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (1)

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Tier 1 - The Contenders

1

Boston Celtics

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (2)

1

Last Rank

First-quarter grade A | Ranked second

Second-quarter grade A+ | Ranked first

Third-quarter grade A++

What can you possibly say about the Celtics at this point? Their dominance is insane. They have the best offense in NBA history and a better net rating than the 2016-17 Kevin Durant Golden State Warriors. They’re on pace to win 66 games and are currently riding an 11-game win streak. With the way they’re playing, there is zero reason (outside of massive injuries) for them to not make the NBA Finals.

Preseason prediction update: Jayson Tatum wins MVP.

Despite being the best player on the best team, I don’t think Tatum has a real chance, if we’re going off betting odds. BetMGM has him fifth at +3000 to win it.

Key Stats

Record

48-12

Offensive Rating

121.7 (1st)

Defensive Rating

110.2 (2nd)

Net Rating

11.5

Rank over time

Wins

Sixers

117-99

Mavs

138-110

Warriors

140-88

Eastern

Tier 1 - The Contenders

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (3)

2

Denver Nuggets

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (4)

3

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B | Ranked fourth

Second-quarter grade A- | Ranked third

Third-quarter grade A-

This Nuggets team is just casually competing for the No. 1 seed in the West and doing the very calm, poised thing of just making sure they’re as healthy as they can be. No pressure or scrambling to make sure they get the top seed at all costs. They’re confident in who they are and know they can beat anybody.

Preseason prediction update: Denver leads the league in offensive rating.

They’re not even close on this one. Denver is eighth in offensive rating, and sits 4.3 points per 100 possessions behind first place.

Key Stats

Record

42-19

Offensive Rating

117.4 (8th)

Defensive Rating

113.0 (9th)

Net Rating

4.4

Rank over time

Wins

Kings

117-92

Heat

103-97

at Lakers

124-114

Western

Tier 1 - The Contenders

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (5)

3

Minnesota Timberwolves

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (6)

4

Last Rank

First-quarter grade A+ | Ranked first

Second-quarter grade A | Ranked sixth

Third-quarter grade A

The Wolves are still very much in the hunt for the No. 1 seed, and their defense is still very much the class of the NBA. There are still some very real questions about their offense, namely in crunchtime. And those can’t be answered without trying to forge this team through the fire of the postseason with real expectations on its shoulders. But Anthony Edwards seems unbothered by the pressure. And Jaden McDaniels already looks like he’s worth that extension.

Preseason prediction update: Anthony Edwards wins All-Star MVP.

Sadly, he did not. Damian Lillard did. Edwards didn’t really try and admitted to it, so I’ll never pick him for it again. Shoutout to KAT for trying though.

Key Stats

Record

43-19

Offensive Rating

114.6 (18th)

Defensive Rating

108.0 (1st)

Net Rating

6.6

Rank over time

Wins

Spurs

114-105

Grizzlies

110-101

Blazers

119-114

Losses

Kings

124-120 OT

Clippers

89-88

Western

Tier 1 - The Contenders

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (7)

4

Oklahoma City Thunder

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (8)

2

Last Rank

First-quarter grade A | Ranked fifth

Second-quarter grade A+ | Ranked second

Third-quarter grade A+

I understand their size issue, which I think will eventually be their undoing should they match up with Denver in a seven-game series. But we also must remember the Thunder have been so good this season that we’ve jumped them up to, “How do they win a title?” expectations. This Thunder team is awesome on both ends of the floor. It might have the MVP with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Thunder already have an identity, despite their youth, and they play a certain style of basketball that is really hard to plan against.

Preseason prediction update: Josh Giddey has a dozen triple-doubles.

He has just one on the season. He doesn’t even have 12 for his career. He’s currently at nine. Going to need a busy final month and a half!

Key Stats

Record

42-19

Offensive Rating

119.1 (3rd)

Defensive Rating

111.5 (5th)

Net Rating

7.6

Rank over time

Wins

Rockets

112-95

at Suns

118-110

Losses

at Spurs

132-118

at Lakers

116-104

Western

Tier 1 - The Contenders

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (9)

5

Milwaukee Bucks

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (10)

7

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B+ | Ranked third

Second-quarter grade A- | Ranked seventh

Third-quarter grade B

Have the Bucks actually figured out their defense, or are they just playing the Hornets and Bulls a lot? The defensive numbers are much better under Doc Rivers so far, but these next seven games will be the ultimate test. They have the second-toughest schedule the rest of the season, so the Bucks will be put through the fire. It will either crumble them by the playoffs or make them be as ready to go as anybody.

Preseason prediction update: The Bucks don’t finish top 15 in defensive rating.

This Rivers switch may end up proving this one incorrect. Milwaukee is up to 15th in defensive rating and within reasonable striking distance of 12th.

Key Stats

Record

39-21

Offensive Rating

119.0 (4th)

Defensive Rating

114.6 (15th)

Net Rating

4.4

Rank over time

Wins

Hornets

123-85

at Hornets

111-99

at Bulls

113-97

Clippers

113-106

Eastern

Tier 1 - The Contenders

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (11)

6

LA Clippers

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (12)

5

Last Rank

First-quarter grade C+ | Ranked 16th

Second-quarter grade A | Ranked fourth

Third-quarter grade A-

We’ve seen a little bit of slippage lately with the Clippers, but they were also winning at a bit of an unreasonable pace once they “figured it out.” Still, you have to love where this Clippers team is, outside of the Russell Westbrook injury. The Clippers have so much firepower on offense that it’s kind of underselling Norman Powell’s Sixth Man of the Year odds. The defense could be better, and I think it will be. Is this the best we’ve felt about the Clippers … ever?

Preseason prediction update: They don’t land James Harden before the trade deadline.

It happened before the paint dried on those new In-Season Tournament courts.

Key Stats

Record

39-21

Offensive Rating

118.8 (5th)

Defensive Rating

114.2 (12th)

Net Rating

4.6

Rank over time

Wins

Wizards

140-115

at Wolves

89-88

Losses

Lakers

116-112

at Bucks

113-106

Western

Tier 1 - The Contenders

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (13)

Tier 2 - Brink of Contention

7

Cleveland Cavaliers

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (14)

6

Last Rank

First-quarter grade C+ | Ranked 12th

Second-quarter grade B+ | Ranked ninth

Third-quarter grade A-

You have to be a little concerned about this Donovan Mitchell injury situation. I’m still hesitant with this team when it’s at full strength, but there is so much talent on the roster. The Cavs have to figure out their offense moving forward – with or without a healthy Mitchell. Their main lineup just doesn’t generate offense. Even though their defense is their identity, they need to score to have success in the postseason. Anything short of the second round is a massive disappointment.

Preseason prediction update: Cleveland finishes top three in the East.

The Cavs are currently third in the East and have a 3 1/2-game lead on fourth place. This one feels good.

Key Stats

Record

39-21

Offensive Rating

115.6 (15th)

Defensive Rating

110.6 (3rd)

Net Rating

5.0

Rank over time

Wins

Mavs

121-119

at Pistons

110-100

Losses

at Bulls

132-123 2OT

Knicks

107-98

Eastern

Tier 2 - Brink of Contention

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (15)

8

Phoenix Suns

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (16)

9

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B | Ranked ninth

Second-quarter grade B | Ranked 10th

Third-quarter grade B

We keep having to wait to see what this team looks like healthy for an extended period of time. Now they’re dealing with a Bradley Beal minutes restriction and Devin Booker’s ankle injury. I still like this team’s peak, even if it feels like we have a small chance of seeing it. At this point, positioning can’t take precedent over health. If they have to get through the Play-In Tournament, then so be it. They also have to stop giving the ball to the other team so much. They consistently cough it up, and it kills them from being an elite offensive squad – which is what they were supposed to be.

Preseason prediction update: Devin Booker makes first team All-NBA.

I’m not sure Booker is going to be able to pull this off. I’m guessing Luka Dončić and Gilgeous-Alexander have the top spots locked up, and Booker isn’t a lock for even being on the second team with how competitive guard play is this season.

Key Stats

Record

35-26

Offensive Rating

117.1 (11th)

Defensive Rating

114.3 (13th)

Net Rating

2.8

Rank over time

Wins

Rockets

110-105

Losses

Rockets

118-109

Thunder

118-110

Western

Tier 2 - Brink of Contention

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (17)

9

Dallas Mavericks

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (18)

8

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B+ | Ranked 10th

Second-quarter grade B | Ranked 15th

Third-quarter grade B+

Even with the rough week, I really like where the Mavs are. They weathered injuries in the first half of the season, beefed up the roster at the trade deadline and look like they could be exceptionally dangerous in a playoff setting. Dončić has generated legitimate MVP buzz. Kyrie Irving has been phenomenal and comfortable when available. The Mavs can’t defend, but they just need to get timely stops. Can they improve their defense to average by season’s end?

Preseason prediction update: Kyrie Irving plays at least 70 games for the first time since 2016-17.

Irving could only miss 12 games the entire season for this to be true, and he’s already missed 14.

Key Stats

Record

34-27

Offensive Rating

117.6 (7th)

Defensive Rating

117.0 (22nd)

Net Rating

0.6

Rank over time

Wins

at Raptors

136-125

Losses

at Cavs

121-119

at Celtics

138-110

Sixers

120-116

Western

Tier 2 - Brink of Contention

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (19)

Tier 3 - Playoff Teams

10

Miami Heat

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (20)

11

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B | Ranked 17th

Second-quarter grade B- | Ranked 13th

Third-quarter grade B+

Nobody wants to believe in this team, but that’s exactly what it seems to do to people every single season. Do the Heat have another “surprise” postseason run in them? The biggest problem with this Heat team is it simply can’t build enough continuity to have a consistently dangerous offense. The Heat are shockingly bad inside the arc. But we all should know by now Jimmy Butler can carry them through some muck.

Preseason prediction update: The Heat make the Eastern Conference finals.

This is going to be extremely tough, but it’s still very doable. They’re healthy enough and look pretty good when the whole squad is there.

Key Stats

Record

34-26

Offensive Rating

113.4 (21st)

Defensive Rating

112.6 (8th)

Net Rating

0.8

Rank over time

Wins

at Blazers

106-96

Jazz

126-120

Losses

at Nuggets

103-97

Eastern

Tier 3 - Playoff Teams

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (21)

11

New Orleans Pelicans

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (22)

12

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B | Ranked 14th

Second-quarter grade B+ | Ranked 11th

Third-quarter grade B+

I’m consistently dazzled by the idea of this team. There’s so much to love about what they bring to the table, and Zion Williamson is certainly playing some great basketball as an initiator. I know they’ve had guys in and out of the lineup all season, but they should be a better offensive team than what we’ve seen. They’re one of the few squads that can and should be top 10 in both offense and defense. This team should shoot a lot more 3-pointers.

Preseason prediction update: The Pelicans finish top 10 in both offense and defense.

New Orleans is sixth in defense, so that one feels like an easy win here. The Pels are 12th in offense but very much could work their way up to top 10.

Key Stats

Record

36-25

Offensive Rating

117.0 (12th)

Defensive Rating

112.2 (6th)

Net Rating

4.8

Rank over time

Wins

at Knicks

115-92

Pacers

129-102

Losses

at Pacers

123-114

Western

Tier 3 - Playoff Teams

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (23)

12

Orlando Magic

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (24)

14

Last Rank

First-quarter grade A+ | Ranked seventh

Second-quarter grade B | Ranked 17th

Third-quarter grade A-

This Magic team is doing it for me. It’s the same story all season long. The offense is mediocre, but the defense is top notch. Paolo Banchero is a star. Franz Wagner is pretty awesome. And, even though I wouldn’t pick them to win a playoff series, their defense might be so good that this becomes a team you don’t want to have to go through in the first round. Jamahl Mosley hasn’t received nearly enough credit for just how good they are.

Preseason prediction update: Paolo Banchero averages 25 points per game.

Banchero is up to 22.9 points per game on the season. He’s averaging 24.7 over his last 32 games, but this one looks like it won’t happen.

Key Stats

Record

35-26

Offensive Rating

113.1 (23rd)

Defensive Rating

111.4 (4th)

Net Rating

1.7

Rank over time

Wins

Nets

108-81

Jazz

115-107

Pistons

113-91

Eastern

Tier 3 - Playoff Teams

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (25)

13

New York Knicks

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (26)

10

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B+ | Ranked 11th

Second-quarter grade A- | Ranked eighth

Third-quarter grade B+

These injuries are piling up, and the Knicks could be down four starters for a bit with Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson all hurt. Hopefully they start getting some of those guys back because we know how dangerous this team looks when they’re healthy. The last part of this season is going to be all about surviving the injuries and trying to stay out of the Play-In Tournament. But as long as they’re healthy by the postseason, they should be fine.

Preseason prediction update: Jalen Brunson makes the All-Star Game.

This one was an easy win, and he would’ve started if the fan voting had worked out better for him.

Key Stats

Record

36-25

Offensive Rating

117.3 (9th)

Defensive Rating

113.3 (10th)

Net Rating

4.0

Rank over time

Wins

at Cavs

107-98

Losses

Pelicans

115-92

Warriors

110-99

Eastern

Tier 3 - Playoff Teams

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (27)

14

Sacramento Kings

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (28)

13

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B | Ranked 15th

Second-quarter grade B- | Ranked 14th

Third-quarter grade B

The Kings seem to be the forgotten team in the West. The top four in the conference have separated themselves. Everybody is trying to figure out if the Warriors and Lakers can actually matter. And, when talking about the traffic jam in fifth through eighth, others just concentrate on the Suns and Mavs. De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis have been so good. I’d like to see Keegan Murray get back to hitting 3-pointers, but the rest of his play has been excellent. The Kings just need the rest of the supporting cast to be consistent.

Preseason prediction update: The Kings finish top six in the West.

It’s very doable, but the Kings are battling Phoenix, New Orleans and Dallas to finish in the fifth or sixth spots in the West. They’re currently a half game behind sixth.

Key Stats

Record

34-26

Offensive Rating

116.7 (14th)

Defensive Rating

116.5 (20th tied)

Net Rating

0.2

Rank over time

Wins

at Wolves

124-120 OT

Losses

at Nuggets

117-92

Western

Tier 3 - Playoff Teams

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (29)

Tier 4 - Play-In Tournament Teams Or Better

15

Los Angeles Lakers

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (30)

18

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B | Ranked eighth

Second-quarter grade C | Ranked 20th

Third-quarter grade C+

We’re about to see if the Lakers can find that same magic we saw them grab in the last quarter of 2022-23. They’re pretty average with offense and defense. Nothing spectacular unless LeBron James decides to take over and the Lakers put some stops together at the same time. This team does not shoot a lot from deep – the lowest 3-point rate in the league – despite being in the upper half in accuracy. Without a leap in outside shooting, this roster is unlikely to cobble anything significant together.

Preseason prediction update: LeBron plays 70 games, his most as a Laker.

LeBron has already missed eight games, so he can only miss four more for this to become correct. But I feel pretty good about it.

Key Stats

Record

34-29

Offensive Rating

114.7 (17th)

Defensive Rating

115.2 (17th)

Net Rating

-0.5

Rank over time

Wins

at Clippers

116-112

Wizards

134-131 OT

Thunder

116-104

Losses

Nuggets

124-114

Western

Tier 4 - Play-In Tournament Teams Or Better

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (31)

16

Philadelphia 76ers

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (32)

17

Last Rank

First-quarter grade A- | Ranked sixth

Second-quarter grade A | Ranked fifth

Third-quarter grade B-

They’re still in survival mode, hoping Joel Embiid will be back and healthy enough in time for the postseason. Philadelphia is another team trying to avoid the Play-In Tournament with a late-season slide. Since Embiid went down with his injury, this is the second-worst defense in the league. They literally just have to hope their offense is hitting enough to get some wins because they can’t stop anybody without him.

Preseason prediction update: Harden is traded before 2024 hits.

This one definitely happened, but if you missed the Clippers entry, you’ll laugh at that prediction.

Key Stats

Record

35-25

Offensive Rating

117.8 (6th)

Defensive Rating

114.4 (14th)

Net Rating

3.4

Rank over time

Wins

Hornets

121-114

at Mavs

120-116

Losses

at Celtics

117-99

Eastern

Tier 4 - Play-In Tournament Teams Or Better

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (33)

17

Golden State Warriors

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (34)

16

Last Rank

First-quarter grade D+ | Ranked 20th

Second-quarter grade D | Ranked 22nd

Third-quarter grade C+

There are times in which the Warriors look acceptable and maybe even on the verge of thriving into a second-round threat. And then, there are times they get demolished in an embarrassing way and start talking like Uncle Rico in “Napoleon Dynamite.” Everything becomes glory days for them. They’ve found some stuff that works, but this defense is brutal. Even with Draymond Green, it doesn’t have the same punch it used to. I’m not sure the Warriors can find it by season’s end.

Preseason prediction update: Curry plays at least 70 games and knocks down 350 3-pointers.

He’s only missed three games so far, and he recently went on a 3-point tear. At the rate he’s going, he’ll make 348 3-pointers if he only plays 70 games. This feels like a lock.

Key Stats

Record

32-28

Offensive Rating

116.8 (13th)

Defensive Rating

115.7 (18th)

Net Rating

1.1

Rank over time

Wins

at Wizards

123-112

at Knicks

110-99

at Raptors

120-105

Losses

at Celtics

140-88

Western

Tier 4 - Play-In Tournament Teams Or Better

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (35)

18

Indiana Pacers

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (36)

15

Last Rank

First-quarter grade A- | Ranked 13th

Second-quarter grade B | Ranked 12th

Third-quarter grade B

The offense fell off enough to where this isn’t just a highlight factory anymore. Since the start of February, the Pacers are 10th in offensive rating, which means they’re no longer scoring at a historic rate. And their defense is so bad that we’re seeing this team look a lot more ordinary. We also haven’t seen the same Tyrese Haliburton during this time. Maybe he’s still working his way back from injury. The Pacers could still finish in the top six in the East, but we’re missing that special level of execution.

Preseason prediction update: Tyrese Haliburton averages at least 25 points and 10 assists per game.

Haliburton is not scoring nearly as much as he did at the beginning of the season, so he’s down to 20.8 points per game. He’s at 11.3 assists per game, which is easy enough. But the scoring average won’t happen.

Key Stats

Record

34-28

Offensive Rating

120.1 (2nd)

Defensive Rating

118.9 (26th)

Net Rating

1.2

Rank over time

Wins

Pelicans

123-114

Losses

at Pelicans

129-102

at Spurs

117-105

Eastern

Tier 4 - Play-In Tournament Teams Or Better

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (37)

Tier 5 - Looking to make the Play-In

19

Chicago Bulls

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (38)

19

Last Rank

First-quarter grade C- | Ranked 23rd

Second-quarter grade B- | Ranked 18th

Third-quarter grade C

The Bulls kind of just settled into, “It is what it is,” with this current roster makeup in the hopes that it will be enough to make it through the Play-In and get some playoff games under their belts. I’d like to see them blow it up and try to rebuild, but this isn’t exactly the draft to ruin it all over. Doing all of this with Zach LaVine out is admirable, and Coby White did emerge as a valuable piece this season. We’ll see how far their defense and two-big approach can carry them.

Preseason prediction update: DeMar DeRozan gets traded before the deadline.

That obviously did not happen because the Bulls will never break up this group.

Key Stats

Record

29-32

Offensive Rating

113.2 (22nd)

Defensive Rating

114.9 (16th)

Net Rating

-1.7

Rank over time

Wins

Cavs

132-123 2OT

at Kings

113-109

Losses

Pistons

105-95

Bucks

113-97

Eastern

Tier 5 - Looking to make the Play-In

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (39)

20

Houston Rockets

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (40)

20

Last Rank

First-quarter grade A- | Ranked 18th

Second-quarter grade B | Ranked 19th

Third-quarter grade C

It’s been getting worse with each quarter of the season, but that’s not such an unforgivable thing with this Rockets squad. We have to remember that, even though they brought in a good coach and some veterans to help them figure out how to win, it’s still a very young core. And despite OKC’s and Orlando’s performances this season, it’s still very hard to win with a lot of youth. Ime Udoka and the Rockets have laid a great foundation for the future, and Alperen Şengün is a star.

Preseason prediction update: Dillon Brooks reaches 20 technical fouls.

He’s second in the league with 14 right now, but I’m not sure he’s getting six more even with all that guaranteed money.

Key Stats

Record

26-34

Offensive Rating

112.1 (24th)

Defensive Rating

112.5 (7th)

Net Rating

-0.4

Rank over time

Wins

at Suns

118-109

Losses

at Thunder

112-95

at Suns

110-105

Western

Tier 5 - Looking to make the Play-In

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (41)

21

Brooklyn Nets

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (42)

24

Last Rank

First-quarter grade B+ | Ranked 19th

Second-quarter grade C+ | Ranked 23rd

Third-quarter grade D

I’m consistently surprised that this Nets team isn’t better defensively with their personnel, and you can’t just blame it on Ben Simmons’ unavailability. Maybe it was a coaching issue, even though that seemed to be players not liking their offensive schemes/hierarchy. But the Nets should be a little better than what we’ve seen, and they’ve been bad the last 30 games or so. This final stretch is all about seeing what they can do under Kevin Ollie and then move forward.

Preseason prediction update: Ben Simmons hits 10 3-pointers this season.

He hasn’t even attempted one, and I can’t blame it on the games missed.

Key Stats

Record

24-37

Offensive Rating

113.6 (20th)

Defensive Rating

115.8 (19th)

Net Rating

-2.2

Rank over time

Wins

Hawks

124-97

Hawks

114-102

Losses

at Magic

108-81

Grizzlies

106-102

Eastern

Tier 5 - Looking to make the Play-In

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (43)

22

Atlanta Hawks

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (44)

23

Last Rank

First-quarter grade C- | Ranked 21st

Second-quarter grade C | Ranked 21st

Third-quarter grade D+

Trae Young is out for weeks, and the Hawks are now looking very vulnerable when it comes to potentially missing the Play-In Tournament altogether. Dropping two games to Brooklyn has put their Play-In hopes in jeopardy. This Hawks team needs an overhaul. It’s been disappointing the entire time after that surprise conference finals appearance in 2021. The Hawks don’t need to move Young at all, but most of this roster should see massive changes. No more blaming the coaches.

Preseason prediction update: Trae Young becomes the fourth player to average 30 points and 10 assists per game.

Young is currently at 26.4 points and 10.8 assists per game, and he’s still out a few weeks with hand surgery. He’d have to be on an absolute scoring tear in the short amount of time he’s back, assuming he comes back this season.

Key Stats

Record

26-34

Offensive Rating

117.2 (10th)

Defensive Rating

119.4 (29th)

Net Rating

-2.2

Rank over time

Wins

Jazz

124-97

Losses

at Nets

124-97

at Nets

114-102

Eastern

Tier 5 - Looking to make the Play-In

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (45)

23

Utah Jazz

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (46)

21

Last Rank

First-quarter grade D- | Ranked 27th

Second-quarter grade B- | Ranked 16th

Third-quarter grade C-

The Jazz have settled in on figuring out if a younger rotation can handle the rigors of competing for the last Play-In Tournament spot down the final stretch. The answer is, “No, they can’t.” They’ve fallen to 5 1/2 games behind the 10th spot in the West, but that’s actually fine. I don’t mind the approach of turning this final quarter of the season into a playoff-push scenario for the younger guys. It's a good experience for them, and the key will be seeing if their defense can even be decent.

Preseason prediction update: Lauri Markkanen, Jordan Clarkson and John Collins all combined to score at least 70 points per game.

This one isn’t even close to happening. The trio of Markkanen (23.1), Clarkson (16.8) and Collins (14.3) only adds up to 54.2 points per game currently.

Key Stats

Record

28-34

Offensive Rating

115.5 (16th)

Defensive Rating

118.4 (25th)

Net Rating

-2.9

Rank over time

Wins

Wizards

127-115

Losses

at Hawks

124-97

at Magic

115-107

at Heat

126-120

Western

Tier 5 - Looking to make the Play-In

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (47)

Tier 6 - Not tanking yet but maybe someday

24

Toronto Raptors

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (48)

22

Last Rank

First-quarter grade C- | Ranked 22nd

Second-quarter grade C- | Ranked 25th

Third-quarter grade D+

Really disappointed in how this season has played out for the Raptors because I do like so many components on this roster. I also really like the move they made in acquiring RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley. It’ll be interesting to see how Masai Ujiri handles the offseason. This team should be more successful than it has been, although that might just be growing pains with building around a young star in Scottie Barnes kind of on the fly. I have high hopes for the future, though.

Preseason prediction update: Pascal Siakam is traded before the deadline.

This one ended up being correct! And it happened well before the deadline too.

Key Stats

Record

23-38

Offensive Rating

114.0 (19th)

Defensive Rating

117.1 (23rd)

Net Rating

-3.1

Rank over time

Wins

Hornets

111-106

Losses

Mavs

136-125

Warriors

120-105

Eastern

Tier 6 - Not tanking yet but maybe someday

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (49)

Tier 7 - Incomprehensibly bad

25

San Antonio Spurs

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (50)

27

Last Rank

First-quarter grade F-- | Ranked 29th

Second-quarter grade F- | Ranked 28th

Third-quarter grade F+

This season has been all about seeing what Victor Wembanyama can do and everything in that respect is a massive success. He’s one of the best rookies we’ve ever seen. His team is tremendous defensively when he’s on the floor and a complete disaster without him. And we’ve seen him grow so much with his game in a short amount of time. But the majority of the rest of this team has been atrocious. Individual performances have been solid, but the Spurs won’t know what they’re doing as a team. Will the front office do what Houston did last summer and go get veterans to help now?

Preseason prediction update: Wembanyama finishes top three in DPOY voting.

A couple months into it, I thought this had no chance. Now, Rudy Gobert is running away with DPOY betting odds, and BetMGM has Wemby second. He’s been unreal defensively. Maybe he does end up in the top three?

Key Stats

Record

13-48

Offensive Rating

109.5 (27th)

Defensive Rating

117.3 (24th)

Net Rating

-7.8

Rank over time

Wins

Thunder

132-118

Pacers

117-105

Losses

at Wolves

114-105

Western

Tier 7 - Incomprehensibly bad

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (51)

26

Portland Trail Blazers

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (52)

29

Last Rank

First-quarter grade C- | Ranked 26th

Second-quarter grade D+ | Ranked 26th

Third-quarter grade D-

To be fair to the Blazers, they’ve had a lot of injuries and guys in and out of the lineup for a squad that wasn’t going to be all that good when healthy. But they probably put up a better fight than we’ve seen most nights if healthy. Scoot Henderson hasn’t lived up to the billing yet, but I still hold out hope. Injuries have kept Shaedon Sharpe from being on the court consistently, but I liked what we saw early on. The good news is Anfernee Simons continues to look like the real deal.

Preseason prediction update: Scoot Henderson leads all rookies in scoring.

This doesn’t seem very possible, does it? He’s fourth in scoring average at 12.9 per game with Wemby leading at 20.9 per game. If we want to get cute and go off total points, he’s down to sixth.

Key Stats

Record

17-43

Offensive Rating

108.5 (29th)

Defensive Rating

116.5 (20th tied)

Net Rating

-8.0

Rank over time

Wins

at Grizzlies

122-92

at Grizzlies

107-100

Losses

Heat

106-96

at Wolves

119-114

Western

Tier 7 - Incomprehensibly bad

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (53)

27

Memphis Grizzlies

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (54)

25

Last Rank

First-quarter grade D | Ranked 24th

Second-quarter grade D+ | Ranked 24th

Third-quarter grade D

The Grizzlies should be better than what we’ve seen, even with the injuries. They put up a fight for a while, but losing twice to Portland at home this past week, with one of them being a 30-point defeat, is a reminder of where this team is. This is obviously a much different season with Ja Morant healthy and not suspended for the first 25 games. Even though it’s not a great star draft (in theory), Memphis getting a high pick to erase the bad taste of this season will help a little.

Preseason prediction update: Ja Morant shoots league average or better from 3-point range upon returning.

In the nine games he played, he only shot 27.5 percent from deep. The league average is currently 36.7 percent.

Key Stats

Record

21-41

Offensive Rating

106.9 (30th)

Defensive Rating

113.4 (11th)

Net Rating

-6.5

Rank over time

Wins

at Nets

106-102

Losses

at Wolves

110-101

Blazers

122-92

Blazers

107-100

Western

Tier 7 - Incomprehensibly bad

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (55)

28

Detroit Pistons

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (56)

28

Last Rank

First-quarter grade F-- | Ranked 30th

Second-quarter grade F- | Ranked 30th

Third-quarter grade F

The Pistons went into the season hoping they could be in the mix in the Play-In race if everything broke right for them. They’re 42 games under .500 and ended up with the longest in-season losing streak ever. Surprisingly, you can still take some positives with Cade Cunningham at times, Jalen Duren’s presence, and I think Ausar Thompson has a bright future. Jaden Ivey has given them some flashes too. But Monty Williams has to do a better job with lineups and the rotation moving forward.

Preseason prediction update: Cunningham averages 20-7-7 on the season.

He’s at 22.2-7.4-4.1 on the season. The rebounds won’t come close unless he decides to watch a lot of Dennis Rodman tape.

Key Stats

Record

9-51

Offensive Rating

110.6 (25th)

Defensive Rating

119.3 (27th tied)

Net Rating

-8.7

Rank over time

Wins

at Bulls

105-95

Losses

Cavs

110-100

at Magic

113-91

Eastern

Tier 7 - Incomprehensibly bad

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (57)

29

Charlotte Hornets

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (58)

26

Last Rank

First-quarter grade D+ | Ranked 25th

Second-quarter grade D- | Ranked 27th

Third-quarter grade D-

I didn’t have high expectations going into this season for the Hornets, considering I had them ranked 30th to start the season. But even then, I was hoping it wouldn’t be this bad. The Hornets haven’t been very competitive, even though we saw a brief bump post-trade deadline. Brandon Miller has been excellent in his rookie campaign, but not having LaMelo Ball for so much of the season just leaves them far behind the development curve as a team.

Preseason prediction update: LaMelo Ball will knock down 250 3-pointers.

He hit 70 in 22 games. He’s a high-volume shooter, but 180 makes if he comes back from the ankle injury this season feels optimistic.

Key Stats

Record

15-46

Offensive Rating

108.7 (28th)

Defensive Rating

119.3 (27th tied)

Net Rating

-10.6

Rank over time

Losses

at Bucks

123-85

Bucks

111-99

at Sixers

121-114

at Raptors

111-106

Eastern

Tier 7 - Incomprehensibly bad

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (59)

30

Washington Wizards

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (60)

30

Last Rank

First-quarter grade F- | Ranked 28th

Second-quarter grade F | Ranked 29th

Third-quarter grade F--

You know how bad a team has to be for them to be the most embarrassing team in a season in which a different squad set the record for most consecutive losses in one season? That’s the Wizards. Tyus Jones and Kyle Kuzma have been good. Deni Avdija has been really strong. Bilal Coulibaly looks like the right pick and project for the franchise to develop. And everything else has been an outright disaster.

Preseason prediction update: Jordan Poole leads the league in scoring.

He was recently moved to the bench because the malaise was so thick. This was an all-time bad bold prediction.

Key Stats

Record

9-52

Offensive Rating

110.5 (26th)

Defensive Rating

119.9 (30th)

Net Rating

-9.4

Rank over time

Losses

Warriors

123-112

at Lakers

134-131 OT

at Clippers

140-115

at Jazz

127-115

Eastern

Tier 7 - Incomprehensibly bad

NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (61)

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NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (62)NBA Power Rankings: Bucks back in top tier; third-quarter grades; revisiting preseason predictions (63)

Zach Harper is a staff writer for The Athletic, covering the NBA. Zach joined The Athletic after covering the NBA for ESPN.com, CBS Sports and FRS Sports since 2009. He also hosts radio for SiriusXM NBA and SiriusXM Mad Dog Sports Radio. Follow Zach on Twitter @talkhoops

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