NBA Power Rankings: Brooklyn Nets rise after acquiring James Harden

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Phoenix Suns Devin Booker (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

8. Dallas Mavericks

Even after getting off to a rough start and having to begin the season without Kristaps Porzingis, the Dallas Mavericks have actually been quite good. They’re one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now and are beginning to play quality basketball.

The Mavs have some work to do on the offensive end but their defense has been on point since the start of the season. That will carry this team a long way during the regular season.

7. Phoenix Suns

The Phoenix Suns made headlines during the offseason by acquiring Chris Paul as an attempt to surround Devin Booker with another playmaker. And so far, you can’t argue with the results. Through the first few weeks of the season, the Suns have been one of the best teams in the Western Conference and are just one game behind the conference-leading Lakers.

The Suns are one of the few teams in the league that have a top 12 offense and defense. As long as this team is healthy, they’re going to be a dangerous team come playoff time.