Top NBA Teams: Warriors and Rockets climb the ranks; Rookie analysis for all 30 teams

March Madness is in full swing, but let’s not forget about the upcoming NBA draft class as the current season progresses. This week’s Power Rankings focus on the 2024 NBA Draft class, highlighting their contributions in the league.

Tier 1: Top Contenders

1. Cleveland Cavaliers (56-11)

   • 2024 draft class: SF Jaylon Tyson (Drafted No. 20), PF Nae’Qwan Tomlin (undrafted)
   • The Cavaliers are on a winning streak, but rookies like Tyson and Tomlin have limited playing time.

2. Oklahoma City Thunder (56-12)

   • 2024 draft class: PG Nikola Topić (12), SF Dillon Jones (26), PG Ajay Mitchell (38), SF Alex Ducas (undrafted), C Branden Carlson (undrafted)
   • Topić is redshirting due to injury, while other rookies are gradually adjusting to the team.

3. Boston Celtics (49-19)

   • 2024 draft class: SG Baylor Scheierman (30)
   • Scheierman is the only rookie on the roster, but he’s making strides in the game.

4. Houston Rockets (44-25)

   • 2024 draft class: SG Reed Sheppard (3), C N’Faly Dante (undrafted)
   • Sheppard is out with an injury, while Dante is slowly finding his place on the team.
5. Los Angeles Lakers (42-25)
   • 2024 draft class: SF Dalton Knecht (17), SG Bronny James (55)
   • Knecht and James are adjusting to their roles on the team, with Knecht back in form after a recent injury.

Tier 2: In a Good Place

1. Denver Nuggets (44-25)

   • 2024 draft class: C DaRon Holmes II (22), SG Trey Alexander (undrafted), C PJ Hall (undrafted), SF Spencer Jones (undrafted)
   • Holmes and Jones are stepping up for the team, contributing to their recent wins.
2. Golden State Warriors (39-29)
   • 2024 draft class: C Quinten Post (52), PG Taran Armstrong (undrafted)
   • Post is emerging as a key player, while Armstrong is gaining experience on the team.

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