The Knicks have dropped to 11th in the latest NBA power rankings. Their slide has shifted from a normal slump into a full identity crisis. New York has lost five straight games and nine of its last eleven. The MLK Day blowout loss to Dallas highlighted deeper issues. The team looks unsure of its direction under coach Mike Brown. The Knicks are hoping to move up but for now that seems to be a chance.

Players Admit Complacency Has Set In

Deuce McBride said the team grew comfortable after last season’s success. He believes complacency has crept into the locker room. The Knicks have not matched last season’s urgency or discipline. They remain only 1.5 games from the No. 2 seed. They are also 1.5 games from the play‑in, showing the East’s tight race.

Thunder Hold the Top Spot Again

The Thunder reclaimed No. 1 after dominant wins over the Spurs, Rockets, and Cavaliers. Their only loss came during a Miami road trip. Jalen Williams remains out with a hamstring injury. OKC handled similar adversity earlier this season without slowing down.

Pistons Stay Firm at No. 2

Detroit’s defense smothered Boston on MLK Day. They blocked nine shots and held the Celtics under 40% shooting. Their 5.5‑game East lead gives them trade‑deadline flexibility. Detroit will seek a secondary ball handler but will not rush.

Spurs Rise to No. 3 Behind Wembanyama

Victor Wembanyama earned his first All‑Star start. He celebrated by scoring 33 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. He may be the Spurs’ lone All‑Star this year. By 2027, multiple Spurs could make the team consistently.

Rockets at No. 4 After Mixed Week

Houston won three of four games last week. Their only loss came against the Thunder. Questions remain about their reliance on Kevin Durant. Alperen Sengun and Durant should be All‑Star reserves.

Celtics Hold No. 5 Despite Injuries

Jayson Tatum completed a one‑hour workout for the media. He appears closer to returning after the All‑Star break. Boston lost a tight game to Detroit but remains dangerous. Jaylen Brown earned an All‑Star starting spot.

Timberwolves Drop to No. 6

Anthony Edwards missed a starter spot but remains an All‑Star lock. Minnesota lost to the Rockets and Spurs last week. Their schedule softens with several games against losing teams.

Suns at No. 7 as Booker’s Value Shows

Devin Booker missed the Detroit game, and Phoenix struggled. The Suns are 1‑3 without him this season. Their net rating drops sharply when he sits. Booker sits on the All‑Star bubble in a deep Western field.

Nuggets at No. 8 While Jokic Heals

Denver is 7‑4 without Nikola Jokic. Jamal Murray looks like a clear All‑Star reserve. Jokic was voted an All‑Star starter by fans. He is expected back by the end of the month. Peyton Watson continues to impress with improved playmaking.

Warriors at No. 9 After Brutal Injury Blow

Jimmy Butler is out for the season with a torn ACL. Golden State had surged before the injury. They won four straight and twelve of sixteen. Steve Kerr may need to expand Jonathan Kuminga’s role.

Cavaliers Round Out the Top Ten

Cleveland remains wildly inconsistent. They beat the 76ers twice but lost badly to Utah. Their MLK Day loss to the Thunder exposed major flaws. Donovan Mitchell should still make the All‑Star team as a reserve.