1. Cleveland Cavaliers (26-4)
Although the Celtics have a better record, the Cavaliers are playing better than any team right now. They have a 12.5 average margin of victory — which is easily the best mark in the league. LeBron James is the best player in the league and the most dangerous in crunch time.

2. Boston Celtics (28-4)
After a two-game slide, Boston comes in at number two in the power rankings. They’re still the team to beat but questions about the age of their Big Three and about the depth of their bench have started to arise. That said, they are the best defensive team in the league and will be very tough to eliminate in the playoffs.

3. Los Angeles Lakers (25-5)
Although the Lakers went through a tough stretch recently, they’ve rebounded with four straight wins. While their defense still has a lot of room to improve, their offense is by far the best in the league. When it comes to hitting a big shot, there’s still no one you’d rather have on your side than Kobe Bryant.

4. Orlando Magic (24-6)
The Magic aren’t getting much attention this NBA season but they are legitimately a very good team. With Dwight Howard in the middle leading the league in rebounds and blocked shots, the game is made easier for the multitude of three-point shooters on the roster. It’ll be tough to get past Cleveland or Boston but Orlando has a bright future and has to be considered a championship contender right now.

5. San Antonio Spurs (20-10)
With championships in 2003, 2005 and 2007, it’d be foolish to count the Spurs out in 2009. Currently, San Antonio has won five straight games and has moved into second place in the Western Conference. If Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili can stay healthy, they will once again be a contender to win it all.

Tags: basketball, cavaliers, celtic, lakers, nba, nba power rankings, nba teams, orlando magic, san antonio spurs
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