Overview
- The defending champion Thunder stay atop at 10-1 despite their first loss and Jalen Williams’ absence.
- Denver jumps four spots to No. 2 at 7-2, while Detroit soars to No. 3 at 8-2 behind Cade Cunningham’s 25.6 points and 9.8 assists and Jalen Duren’s 19.4 points and 11.8 rebounds per game.
- The Clippers slide to 20th at 3-6, drawing criticism for pace, turnovers and defense as speculation about Tyronn Lue’s future circulates.
- Miami sits 13th at 6-4 and is winning without Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, propelled by a league-leading pace of 106.95 possessions.
- Injury and availability notes shaping outlooks include Trae Young’s MCL sprain, LaMelo Ball’s ankle absence, and no resolution for Ja Morant as he shoots 27.6% over his last five games.