NBA Power Rankings: Reality begins to set in for LA Lakers, Brooklyn Nets

Los Angeles Lakers Russell Westbrook (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
Los Angeles Lakers Russell Westbrook (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)
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New York Knicks
New York Knicks Jalen Brunson (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)

9. New York Knicks

Even though the New York Knicks added one of the more sought-after free agents during the offseason, there were still plenty of folks that were bullish on this team’s chances heading into the 2022-23 NBA season. Sure, they had improved. But by how much?

And, at least thus far this season, the Knicks have answered the bell. It starts with how great Jalen Brunson has been for the Knicks. He’s everything they’ve needed at the point guard position and has gotten others involved.

He has left a bit to be desired defensively, but that comes with the territory. If RJ Barrett can shake off his slow start to the year, there’s a chance the Knicks could end up being a lot better than many projected them to be this season.