NBA Power Rankings: Lakers are champions; Nets look to crash the East

Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
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Houston Rockets
Houston Rockets Russell Westbrook (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

22. Orlando Magic

Losing Jonathan Isaac for the 2020-21 season will hurt the Orlando Magic, there’s no question about it. After making the playoffs for two straight years, I believe a step back is coming – due to other Eastern Conference teams improving and the Magic not making any significant additions this offseason.

If Orlando gets off to a slow start, don’t be surprised if Aaron Gordon is on the trade block sooner rather than later.

21. Washington Wizards

The Washington Wizards made headlines earlier this week after they traded John Wall and a first-round pick for Russell Westbrook. Even though this seems more like a lateral move than anything for both teams, a change of scenery could do both players well.

I’m not sure if this move significantly raises the Wizards’ ceiling for this season, but change is not always bad. And perhaps this deal could rejuvenate both the team and Russell Westbrook.