NBA Power Rankings: West Is Still Best

Dec 13, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) dribbles the ball past Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki (41) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Warriors defeated the Mavericks 105-98. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

19 of 31

Dec 14, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry (7) gestures after scoring during overtime against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Toronto Raptors won 95-90 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

Toronto Raptors. 13. team. 81. The Raptors are 3-1 in the last week despite not having DeMar DeRozan on the floor. Kyle Lowry is averaging 15.2 points and 10.6 assists per game in his last five and Toronto’s balanced attack is third in the league in points per game. So why have the Raptors fallen a staggering four spots in a move that’s sure to anger every Canadian reading these words? <p> </p> <p>Well, unfortunately for Toronto, those three wins came against the struggling Pacers, Knicks (overtime) and Magic. Toronto’s defense was sure to suffer with DeRozan out, and now the Raptors are back at 14th in defensive rating. Toronto has a pretty cushy schedule next week too, so for the time being there are a few teams that are just playing better basketball against tougher opponents right now.</p>. (19-6). Previous:

Next: No. 12 - They're Back.

Home/Atlanta Hawks