NBA Power Rankings: Giannis for MVP; Lakers take a tumble without LeBron

In this week’s NBA Power Rankings, Giannis for MVP is gaining steam and the Los Angeles Lakers takes tumble after losing LeBron James

As we begin to head into the New Year, there are plenty of storylines that have caught our attention through roughly the first half of the 2018-19 NBA season. There are a number of narratives that could in fact summarize the first half of the year, however, one of the most interesting is the top of the Eastern Conference.

Somewhat quietly, the Milwaukee Bucks have risen to the top of the East, and roughly 35 games into the season, I think it’s fair to say that this is not simply a hot streak.

Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have the best record in the East and might actually be the best team in the conference. Considering where this team was last season, and losing in the first round of the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, it’s quite amazing that this team might be ready to contend on the brightest of stages in the NBA.

The Bucks are for real, and quite possibly have the NBA MVP at the moment. Giannis is averaging a career high 27 points, 13 rebounds and six assists on nearly 60 percent shooting from the field. He’s been sensational for the team this season, and how vaulted them to the top of the conference.

As the Bucks continue to rise, let’s take a look at the rest of this week’s NBA Power Rankings.