NBA Power Rankings: Heat, Warriors set the tone as dark horse contenders

In the latest installment of our NBA Power Rankings, we take a closer look at the Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors. 

Nearly two weeks into the 2021-22 NBA season, we’ve already seen several different narratives take shape. In the Eastern Conference, there have been a few dark horse contenders that have begun to rise. Among them, the Miami Heat have arguably the most impressive of the bunch.

Miami has all the pieces to make a deep run in this year’s playoffs, but the doubt that surrounding this team was their overall health and whether or not the new additions of the offseason would fit seamlessly with this team’s core. So far, so good.

The Heat has a couple of statement wins already against the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets. They are primed to play a big factor in the East this season.

In the Western Conference, there are also a few unexpected teams that have gotten off to fast starts. Among them, it’s the Golden State Warriors have been the most impressive of the bunch.

For the Warriors, what has made their start most impressive is the fact that they have managed to do it shorthanded. James Wiseman and Klay Thompson have yet to return from injury and they still look like a top 5 team in the conference.

The Heat and Warriors appear to be ready to take up the role of dark horse contenders this season. And watching it all unfold should be quite entertaining to watch.