The 8 top favorites to win the NBA in the 2024/25 season

On Thanksgiving break day and before the NBA Cup returns on Black Friday, we review the favorite teams to win the NBA title according to the latest Power Rankings by NBC Sports, analyzing the reasons why they stand out at this moment.

1. Boston Celtics (15-3)
Celtics fans can thank the early return of Kristaps Porzingis, who is back in the lineup after an injury. In his first game post-break, Porzingis played 22 minutes against the Clippers, scored 16 points, and showed his immediate impact with a +32 point differential. Although they suffered an unexpected loss at the start of the NBA Cup against the Hawks, the Celtics have a strong chance to advance if they defeat the Bulls on Friday and achieve a wide margin to improve their points differential (+14 in three games so far).

2. Cleveland Cavaliers (17-2)
The Cavaliers owe their impressive start of the season to coach Kenny Atkinson. His focus on a more dynamic offensive system and confidence in Evan Mobley as a playmaker have transformed the team into Boston's main rival in the East. Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell have bought into this vision, positioning Cleveland as a strong contender in the NBA Cup. A win against Atlanta on Friday, followed by a convincing victory over Washington next Tuesday, could secure their spot in the next phase of the tournament.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder (14-4)
Isaiah Hartenstein's return has revitalized the Thunder after Chet Holmgren's injury. With averages of 15.3 points and 12.7 rebounds in his first three games, Hartenstein has strengthened the team's defense and offense, accumulating a +25 differential since his comeback. The Thunder still have chances in the NBA Cup, but they will need to beat the Lakers on the road on Friday and convincingly defeat Utah to advance as the winner of the group or a wildcard in the West.

4. Houston Rockets (14-6)
The Rockets have already secured their spot in the next phase of the NBA Cup, thanks to their intense and physical defense instilled by coach Ime Udoka. Although their position as title favorites in June is still uncertain, their ability to compete in the tournament demonstrates that this team is ready for big things. Fans have plenty of reasons to be excited.

5. Dallas Mavericks (11-8)
The team's depth has been crucial for the Mavericks to survive Luka Doncic's absence, who has missed five of the last six games. During this period, players like Naji Marshall have stepped up, shining with 12 points per game and a high true shooting percentage (.630). While they can't win their group in the NBA Cup, a resounding victory against Memphis on Tuesday could secure them a wildcard spot.

6. Golden State Warriors (12-6)
Despite a recent string of losses, the Warriors remain a threat in the West thanks to their solid performance on the road, with a 7-3 record and a net rating of +8.2 away from the Chase Center. Fans can be grateful that the team has already secured their qualification to the next round of the NBA Cup after a victory in New Orleans that sealed their Group C leadership in the West.

7. New York Knicks (10-8)
The Knicks have surprised with an explosive offense, scoring over 130 points in three of their last four games. This offensive resurgence has put the team in contention to progress in the NBA Cup. If they manage to defeat Charlotte on Friday, they will prepare for a crucial matchup against Orlando next Tuesday that could define their fate in the tournament.

8. Denver Nuggets (10-7)
Although Nikola Jokic continues to play at an MVP level, the Nuggets are already out of the running for the NBA Cup. However, fans can be thankful for the progress of Peyton Watson, who has excelled defensively and shown flashes on offense, averaging 9.7 points per game and improving his effectiveness from the perimeter.

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