Image Source: ESPN
NBA standings are already producing major surprises after just over a week of the 2026-27 regular season. ESPN’s latest power rankings, published October 28, show Oklahoma City, Houston and Memphis among the league’s unbeaten teams, while several preseason contenders are struggling to find consistency.
The rankings are based on ESPN’s panel of NBA insiders rather than official league standings, but they offer an early look at which teams are building momentum and which clubs face urgent questions. The Oklahoma City Thunder retained the No. 1 spot after opening 4-0, while the Sacramento Kings remained last at No. 30 with an identical 0-4 record.
NBA Standings Spotlight: Thunder Hold the Top Spot
The defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder have continued their impressive start. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains the central figure, but injuries to Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace have created a larger role for third-year guard Ajay Mitchell.
Mitchell showed his potential with 30 points and five assists in a win over Phoenix. His past postseason success, including a strong performance when Williams was sidelined, could become increasingly important as Oklahoma City attempts to remain on top of the Western Conference.
The Minnesota Timberwolves climbed from No. 5 to No. 2 after starting 3-1. Their new-look lineup featuring Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball produced a 120.8 offensive rating when the pair shared the floor. However, Edwards is expected to miss up to two months following an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee, creating a major challenge for Minnesota’s playoff ambitions.
Houston Rockets Make a Powerful Early Statement
Houston delivered one of the biggest jumps in the latest rankings, moving from No. 10 to No. 4 after opening 4-0. Kevin Durant has scored at least 20 points in each of the team’s first four games, while Fred VanVleet’s return has helped bring structure to the offense.
Alperen Sengun has also benefited from VanVleet’s organization. The Rockets are showing the form many expected after acquiring Durant, although their upcoming games against Milwaukee, Dallas, Oklahoma City and Boston will provide a much tougher test.
Memphis also began 4-0 and surged from No. 24 to No. 14. Ty Jerome has been one of the league’s most productive early performers, averaging 29.8 points per game after a 45-point opening night. The Grizzlies have won all three of their early clutch-time games, an encouraging sign for a young roster.
Surprising Risers and Troubling Declines
- Detroit Pistons: Detroit moved to No. 3 after shooting 42% from 3-point range during its opening stretch. Duncan Robinson and John Collins have provided unexpected perimeter production.
- Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers rose to No. 6 behind Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Reaves averaged 26.7 points while shooting efficiently from the field, from three and at the free throw line.
- Portland Trail Blazers: Portland opened 3-0, highlighted by a 21-0 start against Phoenix in Damian Lillard’s return. Ja Morant’s reduced role remains a storyline to monitor.
- Charlotte Hornets: Grayson Allen and Naz Reid have combined for 36.3 points per game while shooting 44% from beyond the arc.
- New York Knicks: New York dropped from No. 3 to No. 16 after starting 1-3. The Knicks ranked last in offensive efficiency and scoring entering Tuesday’s action.
- Miami Heat: Miami fell to 0-4, only the second time in franchise history the team has opened with four straight losses. Its offense ranked 27th, while its defense ranked 24th.
Injuries Add Uncertainty to the Playoff Race
Health has already shaped the early NBA standings. Toronto moved to No. 7 despite Kawhi Leonard’s knee soreness, while Orlando has been forced to use its third starting lineup in four games because Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs are injured.
Utah is also dealing with frontcourt injuries involving Jaren Jackson Jr., Lauri Markkanen and Jusuf Nurkic. Ace Bailey has responded with back-to-back double-doubles, offering one of the Jazz’s few bright spots.
At the bottom of the rankings, Brooklyn’s 0-4 record has been softened by Julius Randle’s efficient start. Meanwhile, Sacramento is giving rookie Darius Acuff Jr. an aggressive offensive role, but Keegan Murray’s ankle issue could further complicate the Kings’ season.
What Comes Next for the NBA Standings?
Early records can change quickly, especially with injuries, difficult schedules and new rotations still developing. The next wave of games will test Houston against Oklahoma City, Minnesota against San Antonio and New York against Philadelphia.
For now, the biggest takeaway is clear: the NBA standings are already challenging preseason expectations. Unbeaten contenders are emerging, struggling teams are searching for answers, and the Western Conference race appears especially unpredictable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these the official NBA standings?
No. The records are official, but the numbered list is ESPN’s power ranking based on its panel of NBA insiders.
Which NBA teams started 4-0?
Oklahoma City, Houston and Memphis opened the season 4-0 in the latest update.
Which team made the biggest jump?
Memphis made the largest move, climbing from No. 24 to No. 14 after its unbeaten start.
Why did Minnesota rise so high?
Minnesota started 3-1 and posted excellent offensive numbers with Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball together, although Edwards is now expected to miss significant time.
Which teams started 0-4?
Miami, Brooklyn and Sacramento each opened the season 0-4 according to the latest update.
