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

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Philadelphia 76ers James Harden (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) /

16. Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers are off to a bad start. There’s really no denying that at this point. There are really no excuses either. This team is loaded from a talent standpoint and has the necessary depth to be among the top contenders in the Eastern Conference.

The good news for the Sixers is that James Harden looks like a completely different player compared to the last time we saw him playing competitively for the team during the playoffs.

15. Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks are another team that is struggling to start the season. Luka Doncic has been sensational but he doesn’t have a ton of help around him – with the exception of Christian Wood, who has been solid.

I’d have to imagine that the Mavs will look to make a midseason trade. But I’m not really sure there’s a deal out there that would drastically move the needle for the team.