1.) 
Oklahoma City Thunder (25–1)
Oklahoma City finally took a loss but make no mistake they are clearly the best team in the NBA. Complete on both ends of the floor, the Thunder remain the unquestioned standard right now.
2.) 
Detroit Pistons (21–5)
Battle-tested and pulling through, the Pistons entered the season as an Eastern Conference contender. Now, “favorite” feels more accurate as Detroit is running through the East with ease.
3.) 
San Antonio Spurs (18-7)
The Spurs welcomed Victor Wembanyama back, their unstoppable superstar center, and immediately made a statement by knocking off the reigning NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder. When healthy, San Antonio looks like a legitimate threat.
4.) 
Denver Nuggets (19–6)
In a loaded Western Conference, Denver remains the safest championship pick not named Oklahoma City. Experienced, composed, and built for playoff basketball.
5.) 
Los Angeles Lakers (18-7)
This Luka led Lakers squad is in a great spot. The pieces are in place and now it is just a matter of turning up the jets and making a push to become the best team in the West.
6.) 
New York Knicks (18-7)
The Knicks are on an absolute tear and may be the hottest team in the league right now. They are inching closer to challenging Detroit for the top spot in the East, though there is still work to be done.
7.) 
Houston Rockets (16–7)
Houston dropped a tough overtime thriller to Denver but continues to impress. This is a very good basketball team loaded with upside and growing confidence.
8.) 
Minnesota Timberwolves (17–9)
December has been kind to Minnesota so far, with five wins in their first six games. The Timberwolves are trending upward at the right time.
9.) 
Orlando Magic (15–11)
Aside from two losses to the Knicks, Orlando has started to find its footing. Injuries have been an issue once again, losing Suggs and still dealing with Franz, leaving the roster depleted. Still, the Magic have enough talent to stay competitive this week.
10.) 
Toronto Raptors (16–11)
The Raptors have slipped slightly, but this team still feels special. Time will tell whether Toronto can remain in the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference.