Key Reserves: G: Eddie House, F: James Posey, F: Brian Scalabrine

Analysis: The Celtics have answered all the questions about their off-season moves. This group has instantly blended together to create one of the strongest lineups in the league. Kevin Garnett is playing out of his mind and the Celtics are beating teams by an average or 16.6 ppg. Something not everyone is talking about is how well Rajon Rondo has played this year. Then again when you can pass to Allen, Pierce and Garnett, it makes a your job a little easier.

Key Reserves: G: Mike James, G/F: Bonzi Wells, F: Luis Scola

Analysis: See...I told you the Rockets were gonna be good. With Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady healthy, the Rockets have one of the best inside-out attacks in the NBA. This team is deep and should hover at the top of the standings if everyone can stay healthy.

Key Reserves: G: Leandro Barbosa, G:  Marcus Banks, F:  Boris Diaw

Analysis: Phoenix is looking strong this year. Grant Hill has proved to be a good addition to the club and Steve Nash continues to add fuel to the rumor that Canadian Athletes don't age. The only cause for concern are Amare's extremely modest numbers, 13 ppg, 5 rpg. We'll have to keep an eye on this as the season goes on.

Key Reserves: G: Jason Terry, G/F: Jerry Stackhouse, C: Erick Dampier

Analysis: The Mavericks took a big step forward with their win over Golden State this week. The Warriors seem to let every team they play win but for Dallas it allowed them to get the monkey of last seasons playoff defeat off their back. I have a question about Dallas though. They gave Devin Harris a 5 year $42 million contract this off-season...why? The guy averages 8.6 ppg and 3.0 apg. Is that really worth $42 million?? Time will obviously tell and I know he's still young but that surprised me.

Key Reserves: G: Gordon Giricek, F: Matt Harpring, F: Paul Millsap

Analysis: The Jazz look like one of the most complete teams in the league. All five starters are scoring in double figures. Carlos Boozer continues to be one of the game's most effective big men and Deron Williams is getting 21 points and 10 dimes a game. The thing that has most impressed me about the Jazz however, are their role players. Ronnie Brewer is developing into a nice off-guard. His athleticism and un-selfishness is a nice complement to the rest of the Jazz lineup. Paul Millsap coming off the bench is one of the league's best energy guys and is a beast on the boards.

Key Reserves: G: Ronald Murray, F: Jarvis Hayes, F: Jason Maxiell

Analysis: Another season, another complete Pistons team. The starters are generally the same except you've got former sixth man Antonio McDyess in the lineup now for the departed Chris Webber. Personally I'm happy for him. He's been a great backup for a long time and I'm glad he's getting a chance to start again. The Pistons are winning the same way as always. Everyone pitching in 12-20 points and playing great team defense. They don't seem to have the same swagger they did back in their championship days but just like the Pistons of old, they back down to nobody.

Key Reserves: G: Carlos Arroyo, G: Keyon Dooling, F: Pat Garrity

Analysis: The Magic have been playing good basketball and the addition of Rashard Lewis has significantly improved this team. One question...who wants to guard Dwight Howard?? Just curious. The guy is huge! Now in his fourth year in the NBA, Howard has developed into one of the games premiere big men and an absolute force to be reckoned with. He is averaging 19.3 points and 14.2 boards a game. On another note, Rashard Lewis is averaging a career high 2.7 assists per game. So...yeah...looks like everything is going good in Orlando.

Key Reserves: G: Bobby Jackson, F: Rasual Butler, C: Hilton Armstrong

Analysis: Wow, you throw Peja Stojakovic into the mix and the Hornets aren't that bad. Especially when he decides to go and make ten 3's against the Lakers. Aside from him, and I'm not trying to insult all of your intelligences, but David West might be the best player no one knows about. It's not your fault, I forgot about him too. A few observations about David West:
1) I feel really old because apparently this is his fifth season in the league and I remember watching him play at Xavier. Not that I don't remember older players in college but for some reason it feels like it was just yesterday that David West and Xavier beat my University of Hawaii in the tournament (I grew up in Hawaii).
2) The last two years he's averaged roughly 17.5 points and 8 boards a game.
3) If he duplicates those stats this year, then changes his name to Rashard Lewis, someone will offer him a 6 year, $110 million contract.

Key Reserves: G: Jordan Farmar, F: Vladimir Radmanovic, C: Andrew Bynum

Analysis: Look who decided to show up and play this year. The Lakers look like the real deal through five games. Granted there are a few teams with better records so far (including a team that plays there home games in the same arena) but the Lakers are one Shane Battier three pointer and ten Peja Stojakovic threes away from being 5-0. They have wins against the Suns (4) and Jazz (6) and have looked better all around. Vladimir Radmanovic looks like a completely different player too. Seriously, he got a buzz cut. But also the fact that he's not a completely worthless shooter like he's been the last couple years has been a nice change. Final note: Don't look now but Andrew Bynum is practically averaging a double-double. I'm just saying..

Key Reserves: G: J.R. Smith, G: Linas Kleiza, F: Nene Hilario

Analysis: Denver saved their spot in the top fifteen with their performance tonight. They were down eighteen at the end of the first half and battled back to win. Melo and AI make quite the tandem and they proved tonight that no deficit is insurmountable. It's really too bad that Denver has to play in the Western Conference, they'd be a top seed if they were in the East.

Key Reserves: G: Jose Calderon, G: Carlos Delfino, F: Jamario Moon

Analysis: I've said it before but I really like this team. Bargnani looks like he might be developing into a solid player. Bosh's numbers are down but I expect them to even out more as the season progresses. T.J. Ford has really been the big story of the Raptors so far. He's more comfortable in the offense and reminds me a little bit of Chauncey Billups. One more thing. I've asked my friends this before and now I'm going to ask it here. Is there a less well-known everyday starter in the NBA than Anthony Parker?? Think about it. He may also be the only player in the NBA who's sister is more well known than him (and possibly better). For those of you who don't know, his sister is Candace Parker, the All-American phenom from the University of Tennessee. She's kinda pretty too. Let's hope she marries LeBron James just to see what the human race is capable of.

Key Reserves: G: Antoine Wright, F: Bostjan Nachbar, C: Jamaal Magloire

Analysis: The Nets have played well this year and why not? With Vince Carter and Jason Kidd it's hard to be terrible. The big surprise so far has been the play of Richard Jefferson. Through six games, Jefferson is averaging, 25.6 ppg. That's almost 10 points more than his career average. The most important thing now is to see how severe the ankle sprain Vince Carter sustained today is.

Key Reserves: G: Matt Carroll, G: Jeff McInnis, F: Jared Dudley (R),

Analysis: I don't know why everyone made such a big deal about Michael Jordan's draft day trade for Jason Richardson. While everyone was bashing the move all I could think about was the teaming of J-Rich and Gerald Wallace and how that would give the Bobcats some serious athleticism. Emeka Okafor continues to be a dominant rebounder and defensive presence while Raymond Felton, at 23, is emerging as one of the leagues best young point guards. This is a very young team but if they can get some consistent scoring out of Richardson and Wallace they might be able to sneak up on a few teams come June.

Key Reserves: G: Cuttino Mobley, G: Brevin Knight F: Al Thornton (R),

Analysis: How can I possibly rank a 4-1 team at number 15?? Simple really. Two reasons. One, the Clippers are actually not that good. I know right? Amazing logic. The second reason is that their four victories have come against the, Warriors, Sonics, Bulls and Pacers. Those four teams have a combined record of 4-19. Their lone loss came against the Pistons, an actual good team. I'm really not trying to knock the Clippers I'm just not buying them being good just yet, especially not without Elton Brand. Then again sometimes it's not about being the best, it's about being better than your opponent. And with games this week against the, Cavs, Knicks, Warriors and Bulls, the Clippers could easily be sitting at 8-2 which would at least earn them a spot in my top 14.

Key Reserves: G: Devin Brown, G: Sasha Pavlovic, F: Donyell Marshall

Analysis: It's hard to get a read on the Cavs this year. On one hand, they really only have one good player. On the other, that's all they had last year and the made the Finals. Their only losses this year have come against, Dallas, Phoenix and Utah. I am glad to see that Coach Mike Brown is starting Daniel Gibson. "Boobie" as he is nicknamed, is playing well averaging over 13 points a game. Keep in mind he is only 21 and has a lot of growth left. Just throwing it out there but Larry Hughes has already missed half of the teams games this season. Can't say I didn't warn you.

Key Reserves: G: Jarrett Jack, F: Travis Outlaw, F: Channing Frye

Analysis: Just when it looked like the Blazers were going to flounder and flop all over again, they've turned around and won three straight games. LaMarcus Aldridge has been one of the biggest breakout players so far this year and has Portland fans drooling of an, Aldridge-Oden frontcourt. Brandon Roy continues to be a well rounded player and with Seattle product Martell Webster stepping up and scoring 17 a game so far the Blazers look like a team on the rise. Keep in mind, Brandon Roy is 23, LaMarcus Aldridge is 22 and Martell Webster is only 20! Add to that the return of 54, err, 19 year old, Greg Oden next year and the Blazers are set for the decade. And yes, I made a Greg Oden age joke. I think it's some kind of journalistic requirement.

Key Reserves: F: Shawne Williams, F: Troy Murphy, F: Ike Diogu

Analysis: The Pacers' season is the exact mirror of that of the Blazers. After winning their first three games, the Pacers have lost three straight. Their roster, which is practically made up entirely of small and power forwards, seems to have figured out how to coexist. I'm not sure whether it's new coach Jim O'Brien or if he finally grew into his body but Mike Dunleavy has had a great first six games. It'll be interesting to see if he keeps this up.

Key Reserves: G: Nate Robinson, F: David Lee, F: Renaldo Balkman

Analysis: I haven't gotten a chance to watch the Knicks play much this year. The main reason is because not many of their games have been televised here in Phoenix so far. However, given the opportunity to watch the Knicks or any other team I would probably have to choose option b. One thing is for sure, however, and that's that Zach Randolph coming to New York was beneficial to both Portland and New York. New York gained a 20-12 guy and Portland lost the attitude and opened up a starting spot where LaMarcus Aldridge is starting to flourish. I'm just waiting to see what washed-up, overpaid star Isiah is going to wind up trading David Lee and a few others for.

Key Reserves: G: Louis Williams, F: Kyle Korver, F: Rodney Carney

Analysis: The 76ers are one of those teams that you don't circle on your schedule but you don't necessarily look forward to playing either. Andre Iguodala is becoming a bona fide scorer and he's got an average supporting cast around him, which, in the East could be enough for the 76ers to be in the playoff hunt. One question though...Will this "AI" make Philly fans forget the other "AI"? Probably not, but this one is fun to watch too.

Key Reserves: G: Salim Stoudamire, G: Tyronn Lue, F: Josh Childress

Analysis: I like the Hawks. I enjoy watching them play. Like the Blazers, the Hawks have youth across the board and while the dividends won't pay off this year for them, if they can keep this group together, they should enjoy success in the near future. Until then, it seems like the Hawks are going to have to rely on Joe Johnson to keep hitting big shots to keep things close. Then again I wouldn't be surprised to see the Hawks pull off a couple good wins and watch them move up the power rankings.

Key Reserves: G: Charlie Bell, G: Bobby Simmons, F: Charlie Villanueva

Analysis: The Bucks have a fair amount of talent on their roster and it seems that for the first time in a while they wont be completely reliant on Michael Redd's shooting for offense. It'll be great for all the Wisconsin natives to get a chance to watch their basketball team this year but as we all know it's Packer season. And with the Badgers big win over Michigan yesterday, the Bucks take even more of a backseat. But as I mentioned before, at least the people in China are tuning in.

Key Reserves: G: Kyle Lowry, G: Mike Conley Jr. (R), F: Stromile Swift

Analysis: The Grizzlies have a lot of talent and I think this team could start winning some games. I really like the frontcourt of Gasol and Milicic. I've always been a fan of Darko and people who think he's not any good are just misinformed. Darko is just 22 years old and is finally being given the opportunity to start. Just watch, his numbers by the end of the season will be impressive and they will only get better.

Key Reserves: G: Francisco Garcia, G: Quincy Douby, F: Mikki Moore

Analysis: I feel bad for the Kings and their fans. After getting so close back in the early 2000's with a very talented team, they have been reduced to a bunch of no names with even less talent. Kevin Martin seems to be the lone bright spot on this team as he continues to light up the scoreboard night in and night out. Let's hope Reggie Theus can turn things around in Sac-Town and lets also hope that Ron Artest doesn't come out with any more rap albums. Speaking of ballers who rap...anyone ever listen to Iverson's album that cam out like six years ago or so. Not bad.

Key Reserves: G: Chris Duhon, F: Andres Nocioni, F: Joe Smith

Analysis: What can you say about the Bulls? Arguably the league's most dissapointing team so far needs to turn things around fast before things get ugly. Fans will back GM John Paxon as long as the Bulls are winning and improving. However, shelling out a buncha cash for Ben Wallace two summers ago when he is only getting 3.5 points and 5 rebounds a game seems a little iffy now (especially with Tyson Chandler flourishing in New Orleans). The lone bright spot on this team through six games that I can find would have to be the play of Tyrus Thomas. Thomas, is beginning to look like the athletic force that he was back at LSU and his contribution from that position will be major in turning the Bulls around.

Key Reserves: G: Mickael Pietrus, G: Marco Belinelli (R) F: Matt Barnes

Analysis: The Warriors are off to a rough start following last seasons magical first round upset of Dallas. The thing is, I refuse to believe the Warriors are a bad team. The only reason I have them this low is because they haven't won a game. Power Rankings are somewhat objective (like how I ranked the Clippers 15th) but there has to be some substance, and at zero wins, there isn't much substance. If you look at their schedule however, they've played nothing but good teams. I fully expect the Warriors to crack the top 20 at least, by the end of the month.

Key Reserves: G/F: Wally Szczerbiak F: Nick Collison, F: Jeff Green (R)

Analysis: Man Kevin Durant is fun to watch huh? There hasn't been a rookie that entered the league with this much hype since LeBron, and while Durant isn't the same physical specimen that LeBron is, he makes up for it in other areas. The rookie is putting up 22 points and 5 rebounds a game for the struggling Sonics. This team should improve as a whole but in the loaded Western Conference it's going to be a long season for the lowly Sonics. Then I guess it'll be time to pack their bags for Oklahoma City. Don't worry citizens of Seattle, the MLS just approved an expansion team for you! Don't get too excited however, the team won't begin play until 2009. But hey that's exciting right??

Key Reserves: G: Antonio Daniels, F: Darius Songaila, F: Andray BlatcheAnalysis: The Wizards are another surprising winless team. Their big three, Arenas, Butler and Jamison are each averaging 20 ppg but it hasn't been enough to get the Wizards in the win column. The main difference that I've seen so far is with Arenas. Agent Zero's scoring average is down 8 points from last year. At age 25 it's not age that's slowing him down so one has to attribute it to just a cold start. I don't expect the Wizards to stay down much longer, they have a talented lineup and a premiere scorer, they'll be in the playoff hunt come seasons end.

Key Reserves: G: Smush Parker, G: Daequan Cook, F: Dorell Wright,

Analysis: I have to admit, it's pretty cool to see Penny and Shaq on the court together again. However, that's about the only cool thing about the Heat so far this year. This team needs Dwayne Wade back in the worst way. Wade's all-around game contributes in so many ways. He also brings fans to the arena and energy to the court. He should return in the upcoming week and his health, more than anything, will affect Miami's ability to climb out of the hole they've dug themselves into. Side note, I really hope D-Wade has made it into Charles Barkley's Five. He's been trying so hard.

Key Reserves: G: Marko Jaric, G: Greg Buckner, F: Craig Smith

Analysis: The Celtics, err, the T-Wolves have a long uphill battle ahead of them. They are very young and have a lot of raw talent. However, when that's all you have it usually doesn't translate to wins. At least not right away. Al Jefferson is a very good player though and could be a great player. The play of Rashad McCants has also been nice to see. This roster, amazingly, has seven former Celtics on it. The six that came in the Kevin Garnett trade and Antoine Walker who was acquired last week in the Ricky Davis deal. It'll be interesting to see how they grow and mature as a team because they are certainly going to take their lumps this year.