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

Miami Heat (Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports)
Miami Heat (Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports)
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LA Clippers
LA Clippers run (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

20. LA Clippers

I wish I can say that I’m surprised the LA Clippers have gotten off to such a poor start but I’m not. But that’s the impact that Kawhi Leonard has on this team. With him, they’re a championship contender. Without him, they’re just another team in the Eastern Conference.

It’s looking more and more like a lost season for the Clippers unless Kawhi makes a return sooner rather than later.

19. Portland Trail Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers have gotten off to an uneven start to a season that could very well end up dictating the future of the franchise. The good news is that Damian Lillard hasn’t put any pressure on the organization.

The problem is, this team doesn’t look that much better than last season.