Headline: Rising Rivals: Cavaliers and Celtics Shine as Pacers and Lakers Gain Momentum

•Subscribe to NBA League Pass NOW

The highlight of the regular season isn’t confined to a specific timeframe. It occurs when strong teams demonstrate their prowess on the court.

As we move into Week 19, we might be experiencing the most exciting phase of the season. Currently, the Cleveland Cavaliers hold the league’s top record at 47-10, riding a seven-game winning streak and winning 11 out of their last 12 contests.

Their sole defeat during this period was to the Boston Celtics, currently in second place, who have claimed victory in nine of their last ten games. Meanwhile, in the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder have also been on a roll, winning nine of their last ten outings.

In the Eastern Conference, the Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Detroit Pistons have embarked on their own winning streaks. Over in the West, the Los Angeles Lakers (14-4 since mid-January) and Golden State Warriors (5-1 with Jimmy Butler) are emerging as formidable contenders.

Exciting matchups featuring top teams are set to unfold in the upcoming weeks. The playoffs are approaching in less than two months, but we can savor the current action a bit longer.

Highlights of the Week

Teams Making Waves

* * *

East vs. West

Strength of Schedule up to Week 18

* * *

Shifts in the Rankings

* * *

Team to Keep an Eye On in Week 19

* * *

Previously…

OffRtg: Points scored per 100 possessions (League Rank)
DefRtg: Points allowed per 100 possessions (League Rank)
NetRtg: Point differential per 100 possessions (League Rank)
Pace: Possessions per 48 minutes (League Rank)

This season, the league has averaged 113.2 points per 100 possessions and 99.7 possessions per team during 48 minutes.

The NBA.com Power Rankings are published every Monday throughout the season and reflect one person’s perspective. If you have thoughts on the rankings or wish to reach out to John Schuhmann, connect with him via Bluesky.