In ESPN’s Week 7 NBA power rankings, the Phoenix Suns have risen thanks to an incredible seven-game winning streak.
The Suns were placed seventh after falling to the eleventh position for the following reason:
A seven-game winning streak has lifted the Suns to 11-6, meaning they’ve basically won two out of every three games this season with only two of their Big Three available, as Bradley Beal (back) has been out. They’ll have their biggest test thus far with a playoff rematch versus the Nuggets on Friday — a team they could beat only two times in six tries in the postseason before trading for Beal.”
Topping the power rankings were the Boston Celtics at #1, trailed by the 76ers in 2nd place, the Nuggets in 3rd, the Timberwolves in 4th, the Bucks in 5th, and the Thunder in 6th.
While some might argue that the Suns deserve a higher spot in the rankings, it’s crucial to acknowledge the impact of their early-season schedule.
Nearly half of the Suns’ games have been against opponents with winning percentages below.400, including the 3-13 Grizzlies, 5-12 Trail Blazers, the Jazz (who are currently 6-11) three times, the 2-15 Pistons, and the 3-14 Spurs twice respectively.
According to Dunks & Threes, the Suns have the easiest schedule of any NBA club this season, which is something to take into account when assessing their current position.
As ESPN correctly noted, Phoenix’s matchup with the Denver Nuggets this Friday will be a true litmus test, giving the Suns a chance to demonstrate their mettle against a more formidable foe.
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