Thunder Dominate, Pistons Shock: NBA Power Rankings After 1 Month

The NBA is already shaping up to be a wild ride in the 2025–26 season as early favorites have taken control and surprise teams have shaken up the rankings. The Oklahoma City Thunder are flying high, the Detroit Pistons are surging, and several veteran-laden teams are already struggling. Here's where every team stands after one month of play.

1 (NEW) Oklahoma City Thunder

The reigning champions are setting the league on fire with a 16–2 record and an average of 125 points per game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 29.7 PPG and 9.1 APG, while the Thunder's +17.8 point differential is the best in the league. Their defense is stifling, and their bench is deep enough to withstand off nights from key players.

2 (NEW) Denver Nuggets

Denver is keeping pace with a 15–3 record and a 119.1 point-per-game offense led by Nikola Jokic, who is averaging 26.6 PPG and 11.4 RPG. Jokic's ability to control games in the fourth quarter has been vital as the Nuggets continue to thrive when healthy.

3 (NEW) Houston Rockets

The Rockets are off to a 14–4 start, fueled by Kevin Durant's 28.9 PPG and a young core that is finally clicking. Their offense is ranked second in the league at 118.6 PPG and they are winning road games at a 63% clip, showing they can compete with anyone.

4 (NEW) Detroit Pistons

Cade Cunningham is averaging 24.3 PPG and 8.7 APG while leading the Pistons to a surprising 11-game winning streak. Detroit's +12.3 point differential is the fourth best in the league as they embrace a physical style that has helped them secure wins over playoff teams.

5 (NEW) Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James and Luka Doncic are making an impact immediately. The Lakers are 12–6 and rank third in the league in offensive rating (117.9). LeBron is averaging 26.8 PPG and 8.3 APG, looking as sharp as ever in his return season.

6 (NEW) San Antonio Spurs

Victor Wembanyama is revolutionizing the Spurs' fortunes. The rookie is averaging 21.5 PPG and 10.6 RPG while San Antonio has gone 11–7. The Spurs have a top-10 defense and are holding opponents to just 102.3 PPG.

7 (NEW) Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland is 10–8 with a +5.1 point differential, led by Donovan Mitchell's 28.3 PPG and Evan Mobley's 13.1 RPG and 2.8 BPG. The Cavaliers are holding opponents to just 41.7% shooting from the field.

8 (NEW) Toronto Raptors

After a 1–4 start, the Raptors have gone 10–2 and are led by Scottie Barnes (15.6 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 7.1 APG). Their +8.4 point differential ranks in the top 10 and they have beaten teams like the Warriors and 76ers.

9 (NEW) Minnesota Timberwolves

Anthony Edwards is averaging 25.6 PPG and 6.4 APG while Minnesota is 9–9 with a +4.9 point differential. The Wolves are holding opponents to just 42.3% shooting and have won five of their last six games.

10 (NEW) Golden State Warriors

Stephen Curry is averaging 28.4 PPG while leading the Warriors to a 9–9 record. Golden State's offense is ranked sixth at 116.2 PPG and they have won three straight games, including a win over the Celtics.

The Thunder, Nuggets, and Rockets are leading the way, while the Pistons and Raptors have exceeded expectations. The Lakers, Spurs, and Timberwolves are also making statements. The Thunder will face the Nuggets in a blockbuster matchup on December 1st, a game that could define the early West title race.