NBA Power Rankings: No. 1 Spurs making strong case as West's best, Cavs and Celtics surging in East
CBS Sports
by
Brad Botkin
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The NBA power rankings show a clear shift in the Western Conference with the San Antonio Spurs emerging as the top contender. Their impressive nine-game winning streak, including victories over top teams in both conferences, solidifies their position as one of the best teams in the league. Victor Wembanyama's unique impact on the court, altering the spatial dynamics like a younger Stephen Curry did earlier in his career, makes the Spurs a formidable force. Despite the "not ready for the playoffs" narrative, their depth and well-rounded play suggest they are serious contenders.
In the Western Conference, the Detroit Pistons and Oklahoma City Thunder are close behind the Spurs. The Pistons have a strong record and tough defense, with Cade Cunningham potentially on his way to MVP honors. However, their reliance on him to create offense is a weakness, as seen in their loss to San Antonio. Meanwhile, the Thunder, despite injuries, still hold the best record in the league after a dominant start but have struggled recently due to setbacks.
In the Eastern Conference, the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers are making noise. The Celtics have won nine of ten games, with Jaylen Brown performing at an MVP level and Jayson Tatum nearing his return. The Cavaliers, bolstered by James Harden's scoring prowess, have won six out of seven games, showcasing their high-scoring potential. Their ability to dominate in the third quarter highlights their offensive strength.
The uncertainty surrounding teams like the Rockets and Knicks underscores the unpredictability of the league. With the trade deadline behind them, teams are now fully committed to their rosters, making every game crucial for playoff positioning. The Spurs' dominance, coupled with the Cavaliers and Celtics' surges, adds excitement to the race, particularly in the tightly contested Western Conference.
This matters because it reflects how quickly teams can rise or fall based on trades, player health, and performance. The Spurs prove that a balanced roster and young talent can create a contender, while the Cavaliers and Celtics demonstrate the impact of star power and chemistry. For fans, this dynamic race keeps the NBA season thrilling as teams battle for supremacy in their respective conferences.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/25/2026