NBA Power Rankings: Top 10 teams heading into Week 2 of 2020-21 season

#8 Boston Celtics (1-2)

Brooklyn Nets v Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics have lost two games in a row after a statement win against the Milwaukee Bucks in their season opener. Kemba Walker's absence is a huge factor and that's the main reason why they aren't further down this list.

Scoring down the stretch could become a problem for the Celtics if they become overly reliant on Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, however good they must be. At the same time, they need to find a way to get to the free-throw line more often.

#7 Indiana Pacers (3-0)

New York Knicks v Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers are working their magic under new head coach Nate Bjorkgren. Domantas Sabonis is playing at an elite level while Myles Turner is taking care of protecting the rim. Even Victor Oladipo is showing signs of rejuvenation.

Domantas Sabonis for the win.Pacers 3-0. pic.twitter.com/8C0Iv1iz8S

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) December 28, 2020

TJ Warren's output is possibly the only disappointment for them so far this season but he's playing his part while protecting the basket. The Pacers showcased that they're legit by holding their nerve to win a close one against the Celtics and start the next week with a second consecutive game against them.

#6 Philadelphia 76ers (2-1)

Philadelphia 76ers v Indiana Pacers

The Philadelphia 76ers are more about defense than offense so far this season. They haven't shot the ball as well as they would've liked but with so many new pieces coming in, including a new head coach, that's expected.

Joel Embiid is setting the tone for this side on both ends of the court by averaging 28 points and 12 boards to start the season. Ben Simmons still can't shoot the ball though. The Sixers have an easy run of fixtures coming up that will see them take on the Charlotte Hornets twice.

#5 Miami Heat (1-1)

New Orleans Pelicans v Miami Heat

The Miami Heat have bounced back after a surprising loss against the Orlando Magic. That they did it against a gritty New Orleans Pelicans side without Jimmy Butler playing for the majority of the second half shows how much the team has grown.

Just your average afternoon for @D_Bo20 23 Pts / 7 👌's / 5 Rebs pic.twitter.com/6IHTJd1xSJ

— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) December 25, 2020

The Heat have six players scoring in double digits so far. Bam Adebayo leads the pack with 21 points while Duncan Robinson has been scorching hot from downtown to average 18.5 points of his own.

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