RWB Power Rankings: Ultimate clash, Hawks continue to dominate division

Jan 31, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Louis Williams (3) is defended by Philadelphia 76ers forward Lavoy Allen (50) and guard Tony Wroten (8) during the third quarter at the Wells Fargo Center. The Hawks defeated the Sixers 125-99. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Boy this was an interesting week. We missed out on a RWB battle as the Hawks and Pistons game ended up being postponed. Yeah, I hear February 21st is the make-up date. We had an interesting week as each team played in at least one RWB game. We had some good games this week so let’s get to ranking!

Los Angeles Clippers: 1 (1)

Week Record: 3-1 (I predicted 3-1)

RWB Record: 4-1

The Clippers went exactly as I figured they would. They really felt the loss of Chris Paul in their only loss of the week, which was against a very good Warriors team. Beating the Bucks, Wizards, and Jazz should be mandatory for this team if they want to be the best. Good news though: Paul’s target return date is Feb 7th. So yeah, he could be back in just a week. The Clippers have done a solid job holding down the fort while he was out.

This upcoming week, they’ll have to face the Nuggets, Heat, and Raptors. I think they take the Nuggets and lose to the Heat at home. They’ll beat the tough Raptors. So, 2-1

Washington Wizards: 2 (2)

Week Record: 2-1 (I predicted 1-2)

RWB Record: 5-6

The Wizards really impressed this week. They beat the Warriors on the road. They also blew out the Thunder at home. And we talked about the loss to the Clippers. The Wizards have still not been able to get above the .500 mark though.

This week won’t be easy. Blazers, Spurs, and Cavaliers. Now, they are home games so this works. Also, the Spurs have been non-Spurs like in recent weeks. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers are an imploding team that I can really see the Wizards pouncing on. It’s risky, but I’m going to go with 2-1 this week with the Wizards finally getting over the .500 mark.

Atlanta Hawks: 3 (3)

Week Record: 2-1 (I predicted 3-1)

RWB Record: 6-1

Yeah, so, as you cans see, my prediction wasn’t on or off. Although, one could say the Hawks would’ve beaten the Pistons had they played. The Hawks have an impressive record against the rest of the teams here. Anyway, they beat the Sixers and Timberwolves while losing to the Thunder.

This week, the Hawks will continue for their push for reclaiming the 2nd spot. They have the Pacers, Pelicans, and Grizzlies. They face the Pacers at home. But, I still think loss. They will visit and beat the Pelicans before coming home to lose to the Grizzlies. 1-2.

Detroit Pistons: 4 (4)

Week Record: 2-1 (I predicted 2-2)

RWB record: 5-5

Again, my prediction wasn’t complete. Still, a loss would make my prediction true and so I like to think that I got the Hawks and Pistons right. Anyway, they beat the Sixers. Beat? Destroyed. They also beat the Magic and lost to the Mavericks.

This upcoming week, they’ll have to visit the Heat and Magic and then they come home for the Nets and Nuggets. I say they go 1-1 in Florida before yet again going 1-1 at home. So, 2-2. Every time I feel like the prediction was too easy, like this time, I end up being wrong. Sigh.

Philadelphia 76ers: 5 (5)

Week Record: 1-3 (I predicted 1-3)

RWB record: 1-8

The Sixers have been bad. Losers of 12 of their last 15, the tank is going strong. However, their RWB record has been more woeful than I anticipated. They lost to the Suns, beat the Celtics, lost to the Hawks and Pistons. Just as I figured.

This upcoming week is more of the same. Nets, Celtics, and Lakers. Quick thought says 0-3. However, let’s consider each game. The Nets have been playing well in January and I would think that continues. Plus, the Nets are home. I gotta go with the Nets. Celtics? Now, last meeting, which was just this past week, the Sixers won on a tough buzzer beater in Boston.Interestingly enough, the Sixers have been better on the road than home recently. So, I’ll go Celtics. Sixers are also home for the Lakers. I just don’t see the Lakers losing although the Sixers did win in LA in their first meeting. You know what, my gut says 0-3. I’m sticking with that.