NBA Power Ranking Week 17: Toronto Raptors continue to surge as the Milwaukee Bucks remain top of the standings

#7 Utah Jazz - Record: 34-18

Rudy Gobert and the Jazz are battling to secure homecourt advantage

The Jazz ended their five-game losing streak thanks to a controversial win over the Trail Blazers on Friday, and Quin Snyder's side also picked up a narrow win against the Rockets on Sunday night. At 34-18, the Jazz remain on track, and Snyder will be pleased with Mike Conley's recent performances.

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#6 LA Clippers - Record: 37-16

The LA Clippers sit third in the West standings

On the surface, the Clippers enjoyed a strong week as they picked up wins over the Spurs, Heat, and Cavaliers. However, Doc Rivers' team suffered a humiliating 142-115 loss to the Timberwolves, and while Marcus Morris was an excellent signing - the Clippers still have plenty of work to do.

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#5 Boston Celtics - Record: 37-15

The Boston Celtics have won their past seven games to improve to 37-15

The Celtics picked up a hard-fought win in Oklahoma City last night to extend their winning streak to 7 games. Admittedly, Boston has benefited from a favorable schedule, although Brad Stevens finally has a full roster to choose from, and his side are starting to look like a real threat to advance from the East.

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#4 Denver Nuggets - Record: 37-16

The Denver Nuggets sit second in the West standings

Denver entered Week 16 coming off a disappointing overtime loss to the shorthanded Pistons, although they got back on track by picking up wins over the Trail Blazers, Jazz, and Suns. A 3-0 week improved Denver's record to 37-16 - and a win against the Lakers this week will provide Michael Malone's side with a huge amount of momentum heading into the All-Star break.