NBA power rankings

Michael Lee evaluates the best teams in the National Basketball Association.

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1. Chicago, Last week: 2

No NBA coach has ever repeated as coach of the year but in leading Bulls through another injury-riddled campaign, Tom Thibodeau is making a strong case to the first.

JIM YOUNG / REUTERS

2. Oklahoma City, Last week: 1

The Thunder stayed quiet at the deadline, but it is very good shape with defensive guard Thabo Sefolosha returning after missing 23 games with a foot injury.

Sue Ogrocki / AP

3. San Antonio, Last week: 4

Spurs finally have a reunion with Tim Duncan's favorite teammate, Stephen Jackson, who made big money but never won a ring after starting on 2003 title team.

Bahram Mark Sobhani / AP

4. Miami, Last week: 3

Heat has sputtered since the all-star break and failed to make a deadline deal for sixth straight year, but it will ready to pounce if any big men become available on waiver wire.

Sam Greenwood / GETTY IMAGES

5. Orlando, Last week: 6

Why did Dwight Howard decide to stay? Aside from being "loyal," wins over Chicago and Miami have Howard believing Magic is a legit contender.

Bahram Mark Sobhani / AP

6. Los Angeles Lakers, Last week: 10

Lakers filled a need for a quick point guard capable of defending in Ramon Sessions, but also said farewell to Derek Fisher, Kobe Bryant's partner for five championships.

Gerald Herbert / AP

7. Memphis, Last week: 5

Gilbert Arenas, Beale Street bound? The Grizzlies have interest but should find a real spark with Zach Randolph returning from a knee injury.

Ben Margot / AP

8. Indiana, Last week: 7

The Pacers already had one of the NBA's best benches but got stronger with the acquisition of speedy Brazilian guard Leandro Barbosa.

Michael Conroy / AP

9. Philadelphia, Last week: 9

The 76ers welcomed back sorely missed big man Spencer Hawes from an Achilles' injury, but Hawes is under serious playing restrictions as he eases back.

ADAM HUNGER / REUTERS

10. Los Angeles Clippers, Last week: 8

Nick Young leaving a dysfunctional situation in Washington to go home, where Lob City has suddenly come down to earth during recent swoon.

Jae C. Hong / AP

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