1. Los Angeles Lakers (3-0) - No surprise here. The reigning champs got their rings and came out of the gate running, going 3-0. The chemistry is there and this team looks to already be in mid-season form.
2. Miami Heat (3-1) - After a disastrous first game against the Celtics, Miami rebounded and won their next 3 games. With Dwyane Wade leading the way, the Big Three looks to have made strides in making this team a top contender.
3. Portland Trailblazers (3-1) - There were many questions concerning the health of this team before the season. But, led by Brandon Roy and LaMarcus Aldridge, the Blazers- who's only loss came against Luol Deng's huge 40 point night- have looked extremely impressive thus far.
4. Boston Celtics (2-1) - The only thing holding the Celtics from taking the number 3 spot in the rankings is their loss to the Cavaliers. Expect them to continue to move up.
5. Oklahoma City Thunder (2-1) - OKC began a hype filled year with an impressive win over the Bulls. One poor outing against the Jazz won't hold this team back from the 5 spot in these rankings. Kevin Durant is already showing why he should be this year's MVP.
6. Atlanta Hawks (3-0) - The Hawks have gone undefeated thus far and give me no reason to put them lower than 6. Although they don't yet have an impressive win, they're getting the job done and beating teams that they're better than- which is key. They've established themselves as one of the top offensive teams in the league.
7. Orlando Magic (1-1) - No doubt in my mind that the Magic will move way up the rankings within the next few weeks. But after a blow out loss to the Heat, I couldn't put them any higher than 7. If the Magic are for real, they're going to need to compete with the Heat for the spotlight in Florida.
8. Denver Nuggets (2-1) - Despite the trade speculation of Carmelo Anthony, Denver has come out and played some excellent ball. Beating two very good teams in Utah and Houston, the Nuggets have shown everyone that they won't let the controversy get the best of them....for now.
9. New Orleans Hornets (3-0) - Surprising to see the Hornets this high on the rankings considering there were low expectations for them coming into the season. But, CP3 has come out to play and is slowly returning to the superstar form he showed before his injury a season ago. New Orleans has definitely earned this spot, already beating 3 of last year's West playoff teams.
10. Chicago Bulls (2-1) - The Bulls are off to a strong start, even without Carlos Boozer. The incredible offensive play of Derrick Rose as well as the rebounding superiority of Joakim Noah has this team playing like a contender. I'm sure the Bulls are hoping that Luol Deng can give them more 40-point performances like he did against the Blazers.
Outside looking in: The Memphis Grizzlies, San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks.
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