End-of-Season NBA Team Power Rankings 2025

With less than two weeks remaining in the NBA regular season, much is still at stake. Playoff berths are being secured, but the fight to avoid the play-in tournament intensifies daily. The Western Conference is particularly competitive, with teams ranked third through eighth separated by just a couple of games.

At the bottom of the standings, several teams are balancing the desire to finish strong with the potential to improve their lottery odds for the No. 1 draft pick. This year`s draft class is considered strong, headlined by Duke`s standout freshman, Cooper Flagg.

As the season winds down, players are striving to meet award criteria and strengthen their cases for honors like MVP, Rookie of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year.

Our NBA experts share their insights on the current standings in our latest Power Rankings and highlight what to watch for in the season`s final weeks.

Note: Team rankings are determined by our panel (ESPN`s Tim Bontemps, Jamal Collier, Michael Wright, Tim MacMahon, Dave McMenamin, Ohm Youngmisuk, and Chris Herring) based on their assessment of team performance this season.

Previous rankings: Preseason | Oct. 30 | Nov. 5 | Nov. 13 | Nov. 20 | Nov. 27 | Dec. 4 | Dec. 11 | Dec. 18 | Dec. 25 | Jan. 1 | Jan. 8 | Jan. 15 | Jan. 22 | Jan. 29 | Feb. 5 | Feb. 12 | Feb. 26 | Mar. 5 | Mar. 12 | Mar. 19 | Mar. 26

• 2024-25 record: 63-12

• Previous ranking: 1

• Next games: vs. DET (Apr. 2), @ HOU (Apr. 4), vs. LAL (Apr. 6), vs. LAL (Apr. 8)

The Thunder`s dominant win over the Bulls on Monday secured them the best cross-conference record in NBA history, standing at 28-1 against Eastern Conference teams this season. Their only loss was against Cleveland. The previous record of 27-3 was held by the 2015-16 Warriors, 2006-07 Mavericks, and 1999-2000 Lakers. — Tim MacMahon

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• 2024-25 record: 60-15

• Previous ranking: 2

• Next games: vs. NYK (Apr. 2), @ SA (Apr. 4), vs. SAC (Apr. 6), vs. CHI (Apr. 8)

The Cavaliers have already achieved their third 60-win season in franchise history and could tie their record for wins if they go 6-1 in their remaining games. However, their primary focus is securing the No. 1 seed in the East, currently four games ahead of the Celtics, who have won 14 of their last 15. Only one of Cleveland`s final seven games is against a non-playoff team (San Antonio). — Dave McMenamin

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• 2024-25 record: 56-19

• Previous ranking: 3

• Next games: vs. MIA (Apr. 2), vs. PHX (Apr. 4), vs. WAS (Apr. 6), @ NYK (Apr. 8)

If the Celtics win all their remaining games, they have a slim chance of catching the Cavaliers for the top seed in the East. More importantly, the Celtics are focused on staying healthy for the playoffs. Boston is confident in their ability to compete with any team at full strength. — Tim Bontemps

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• 2024-25 record: 49-27

• Previous ranking: 4

• Next games: vs. UTAH (Apr. 2), vs. OKC (Apr. 4), @ GS (Apr. 6)

Despite missing an opportunity to be the second Western team to clinch a playoff spot, Coach Ime Udoka prioritizes health, consistency, and using physicality to turn defense into offense. Houston aims to improve their half-court offense for the playoffs and can rely on their league-leading offensive rebounding. Their upcoming schedule against likely West playoff teams will be excellent preparation. — Michael Wright

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• 2024-25 record: 47-29

• Previous ranking: 5

• Next games: vs. SA (Apr. 2), @ GS (Apr. 4), vs. IND (Apr. 6)

The Nuggets have a lot to play for in their final six games as they aim for a top-four seed in the West. Nikola Jokic is still in the MVP race with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and might need a strong finish after missing five games due to injury. However, health is paramount for the Nuggets, ensuring Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon are ready for the playoffs. Regardless of seeding, Denver is a threat in the West if their key players are healthy. Notably, the Nuggets were the last team to defeat the West-leading Thunder, who are currently on a 10-game winning streak. — Ohm Youngmisuk

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• 2024-25 record: 46-29

• Previous ranking: 7

• Next games: vs. GS (Apr. 3), vs. NO (Apr. 4), @ OKC (Apr. 6), @ OKC (Apr. 8)

The Lakers have reached the postseason through the play-in tournament in three of the last four seasons. Currently in the No. 4 spot in the West with seven games left, LeBron James and the Lakers are determined to maintain their position and secure an outright playoff spot. James stated their mission is to lock in a playoff spot to avoid the play-in tournament. — McMenamin

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• 2024-25 record: 44-31

• Previous ranking: 9

• Next games: @ LAL (Apr. 3), vs. DEN (Apr. 4), vs. HOU (Apr. 6), @ PHX (Apr. 8)

Since acquiring Jimmy Butler III before the trade deadline, the Warriors` goal is clear: secure a sixth seed or higher to avoid the play-in. They want to avoid risking their improved second half of the season in a single-elimination game and prefer a week off before a first-round series. Curry mentioned earlier this season that he believes the Warriors can beat anyone in a series due to their championship experience. With Butler added, they are confident in making a deep playoff run. — Youngmisuk

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• 2024-25 record: 44-31

• Previous ranking: 11

• Next games: vs. CHA (Apr. 2), vs. UTAH (Apr. 4), @ DEN (Apr. 6), vs. WAS (Apr. 8)

Can the Pacers maintain the No. 4 seed? They`ve remained hot while the injury-hit Bucks dropped to sixth, positioning Indiana for potential home-court advantage in the first round. The Pacers also have a two-game lead over No. 5 Detroit and will play five of their final seven games at home, giving them an edge for a top-four seed. — Jamal Collier

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• 2024-25 record: 44-32

• Previous ranking: 8

• Next games: @ MIA (Apr. 3), @ DET (Apr. 5), @ CHA (Apr. 8)

The Grizzlies shocked the NBA by firing head coach Taylor Jenkins close to the season`s end. Now, we`ll see how Memphis performs under interim coach Tuomas Iisalo, formerly of Paris Basketball, where he won the EuroCup and was named coach of the year in 2023-24. Memphis will aim to incorporate more of Iisalo`s pick-and-roll tactics to enhance Ja Morant`s play. GM Zach Kleiman expects `clarity of direction` down the stretch, but the team is 0-3 since Jenkins` departure. — Wright

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• 2024-25 record: 44-32

• Previous ranking: 10

• Next games: @ BKN (Apr. 3), @ PHI (Apr. 5), @ MIL (Apr. 8)

Can the Timberwolves escape the play-in? Minnesota, like other teams in their vicinity in the standings, wants to avoid the play-in and secure a top-six seed. On a three-game win streak, the Wolves are No. 7 but tied in games back with the No. 6 Grizzlies (19.5). They are just half a game ahead of the No. 8 Clippers. After a double-overtime win against Denver, their schedule eases with road games against Brooklyn and Philadelphia. — Collier

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• 2024-25 record: 48-27

• Previous ranking: 6

• Next games: @ CLE (Apr. 2), @ ATL (Apr. 5), vs PHX (Apr. 6), vs. BOS (Apr. 8)

The Knicks` main focus in the final weeks is star guard Jalen Brunson`s health as he recovers from an ankle sprain. They also hope backups Deuce McBride and Cam Payne return soon, and for Mitchell Robinson to regain form after a long absence. Brunson returning in time for a few regular-season games to get comfortable before the playoffs would be ideal. — Chris Herring

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• 2024-25 record: 43-32

• Previous ranking: 12

• Next games: vs. NO (Apr. 2), vs. DAL (Apr. 4), vs. DAL (Apr. 5), vs. SA (Apr. 8)

The Clippers are battling for the sixth seed to avoid the play-in. Their top priority is Kawhi Leonard`s health entering the playoffs. After Leonard`s early-season absence, the Clippers are focused on preventing playoff injuries like in previous years. They`ve been resting Leonard in back-to-backs and have only one remaining, a home series against Dallas. — Youngmisuk

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• 2024-25 record: 42-33

• Previous ranking: 14

• Next games: @ OKC (Apr. 2), @ TOR (Apr. 4), vs. MEM (Apr. 5), vs. SAC (Apr. 7)

Having nearly secured a top-six spot in the East and a playoff return for the first time since 2019, the Pistons are focused on seeding. Catching the Pacers for home-court advantage might be tough as Indiana has a two-game lead and the tiebreaker. Detroit wants to stay ahead of the Bucks for fifth. The tiebreaker with Milwaukee will be decided in the final weekend in a home-and-home series. — Kevin Pelton

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• 2024-25 record: 41-34

• Previous ranking: 13

• Next games: @ PHI (Apr. 3), @ MIA (Apr. 5), @ NO (Apr. 6), vs. MIN (Apr. 8)

Damian Lillard`s health is crucial for Milwaukee, who dropped four straight before a win against the Suns, falling to No. 6 due to Lillard`s absence. Their playoff hopes depend on Lillard`s return. The chemistry between Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the league`s top-scoring duo, is vital for the postseason. — Collier

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• 2024-25 record: 36-39

• Previous ranking: 16

• Next games: @ DAL (Apr. 2), vs. NYK (Apr. 5), vs. UTAH (Apr. 6), @ ORL (Apr. 8)

Atlanta will prioritize managing Trae Young`s workload due to Achilles tendonitis. They also aim to get Clint Capela back from a hand injury for the playoffs. The Hawks are focused on their two remaining games against the Magic, likely their play-in opponent for the No. 7 seed. These teams have been close in the standings all season. — Herring

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• 2024-25 record: 37-39

• Previous ranking: 19

• Next games: vs. ATL (Apr. 2), @ LAC (Apr. 4), @ LAC (Apr. 5)

The Mavericks will finally see Nico Harrison`s vision of a large and dynamic frontcourt down the stretch. Anthony Davis and Daniel Gafford recently returned from injuries, and Dereck Lively II is close to returning. Davis has averaged 14.3 points and 6.8 rebounds in four games since returning, while Gafford had 17 points and 7 rebounds in 19 minutes in his return game. — MacMahon

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• 2024-25 record: 36-39

• Previous ranking: 15

• Next games: @ WAS (Apr. 2), @ CHA (Apr. 4), @ CLE (Apr. 6), @ DET (Apr. 7)

Despite losing six of their last seven, the Kings hold the final play-in spot in the West. Durant`s injury improves their playoff chances as they are 1.5 games ahead of the Suns. The head-to-head tiebreaker against Phoenix is on the last day of the season. Sacramento`s easier schedule makes them favorites to reach the play-in in 85% of simulations. — Pelton

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• 2024-25 record: 37-40

• Previous ranking: 18

• Next games: @ WAS (Apr. 3), vs. ATL (Apr. 8)

The Magic are in a play-in seeding battle, having slipped behind the Hawks for seventh. Falling further would eliminate the possibility of advancing with a single play-in win. Orlando and Atlanta play twice in the final five games, starting Tuesday. The Magic are 5-2 in their last seven but haven`t gained ground on the Hawks. — Pelton

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• 2024-25 record: 34-42

• Previous ranking: 21

• Next games: vs. POR (Apr. 4), @ CHA (Apr. 6), @ CLE (Apr. 8)

Watch Josh Giddey entering free agency. The Bulls` recent improvement briefly raised hopes of moving up in the East play-in, but they`ve settled back to No. 10. Giddey`s performance is key to watch. His numbers post-All-Star break, alongside Coby White, have given the Bulls a backcourt to build on. Giddey`s end to the season, including any postseason play, will show if he`s improved from being benched in last season`s playoffs with Oklahoma City. — Collier

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• 2024-25 record: 35-41

• Previous ranking: 17

• Next games: @ BOS (Apr. 4), @ NYK (Apr. 6), vs. GS (Apr. 8)

Will Kevin Durant`s ankle sprain derail the Suns` play-in hopes? Before Durant`s injury, in a loss to the Rockets, Phoenix had won five of six. They are 1.5 games behind the No. 10 Kings, whom they face on the season`s last day. With Durant out for at least a week and tough games against the Celtics, Knicks, Warriors, and Thunder ahead, the Suns` season outlook is dimming. — McMenamin

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• 2024-25 record: 34-41

• Previous ranking: 23

• Next games: @ BOS (Apr. 2), vs. MEM (Apr. 3), vs. MIL (Apr. 5), vs. PHI (Apr. 7)

After a 10-game losing streak followed by a five-game win streak, Miami has a chance to get back into the 7-8 play-in game. Reaching the playoffs is important for Miami to avoid losing unprotected draft picks in the future. — Bontemps

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• 2024-25 record: 33-43

• Previous ranking: 20

• Next games: @ TOR (Apr. 3), @ CHI (Apr. 4), vs. SA (Apr. 6)

A four-game losing streak likely ends the Blazers` play-in hopes. They are 3.5 games behind the Kings and need to pass the Suns to reach No. 10. Portland may shift focus to improving their lottery position. The Blazers and Spurs are likely to be eighth and ninth in the lottery, order pending. They play Sunday in Portland. — Pelton

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• 2024-25 record: 21-54

• Previous ranking: 27

• Next games: @ LAC (Apr. 2), @ LAL (Apr. 4), vs. MIL (Apr. 6), @ BKN (Apr. 8)

Injury woes continue for New Orleans, with Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum ruled out for the season. Dejounte Murray, Trey Murphy III, and Herbert Jones might also miss part of next season due to injuries from this campaign. With injuries derailing their season, the Pelicans need to focus on the draft and roster construction for next season. — Wright

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• 2024-25 record: 31-44

• Previous ranking: 22

• Next games: @ DEN (Apr. 2), vs. CLE (Apr. 6), @ POR (Apr. 6), @ LAC (Apr. 8)

San Antonio needs a miracle for the play-in, but they`ll fight to make it happen. Four of their remaining eight opponents have records above .500, and they finish with five road games. Despite playing without Victor Wembanyama and De`Aaron Fox, young players are auditioning for roles. Watch if Stephon Castle solidifies his Rookie of the Year campaign. — Wright

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• 2024-25 record: 28-48

• Previous ranking: 25

• Next games: vs. POR (Apr. 3), vs. DET (Apr. 4), @ BKN (Apr. 6)

Toronto won`t see Brandon Ingram with this group this season, but they are evaluating Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley together, who have rarely played together due to injuries since Quickley`s arrival last season. Eliminated from the postseason, the Raptors can use their last games to assess this duo`s future potential. — Bontemps

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• 2024-25 record: 25-51

• Previous ranking: 24

• Next games: vs. MIN (Apr. 3), vs. TOR (Apr. 6), vs. NO (Apr. 8)

Despite being close to the tanking Sixers in lottery odds, first-year Nets coach Jordi Fernandez is trying to maximize this group. The Nets recently won back-to-back games for the first time since the All-Star break. — Herring

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• 2024-25 record: 23-53

• Previous ranking: 26

• Next games: vs. MIL (Apr. 3), vs. MIN (Apr. 5), @ MIA (Apr. 7)

After Brooklyn`s back-to-back wins, Philadelphia now `leads` the Nets for fifth place in the draft lottery, important as their pick needs to be top six to avoid going to the Thunder. Finishing fifth gives them a nearly two-thirds chance of keeping the pick. This is Philadelphia`s main focus for the next week and a half. — Bontemps

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• 2024-25 record: 19-56

• Previous ranking: 28

• Next games: @ IND (Apr. 2), vs. SAC (Apr. 4), vs. CHI (Apr. 6), vs. MEM (Apr. 8)

Charlotte, even after a win over Utah, wants to remain in the bottom three of the standings for top lottery odds with the Jazz and Wizards. With LaMelo Ball out for the season and sitting two games worse than the Pelicans, the Hornets are likely to finish at the bottom as desired. — Herring

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• 2024-25 record: 16-59

• Previous ranking: 30

• Next games: vs. SAC (Apr. 2), vs. ORL (Apr. 3), @ BOS (Apr. 6), @ IND (Apr. 8)

With seven games left, the Wizards need to secure the best lottery odds in a strong draft. Approaching 60 losses, they are tied with Utah for the worst record, with Charlotte close behind. The bottom three get 14% odds for the top pick. While Washington wants to develop young players like Alex Sarr, maintaining top lottery odds is crucial. — Youngmisuk

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• 2024-25 record: 16-60

• Previous ranking: 29

• Next games: @ HOU (Apr. 2), @ IND (Apr. 4), @ ATL (Apr. 6)

Rookie Isaiah Collier broke one of John Stockton`s assist records. Collier now has 419 assists this season, surpassing Stockton`s rookie franchise record of 415. The No. 29 draft pick needs 15,388 more assists to break Stockton`s NBA career record. — MacMahon

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