The NBA landscape is solidifying as the holiday break approaches, with several teams distinguishing themselves in the early weeks of the 2026-27 season. While the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder are making a strong early surge, the Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as arguably the most impressive squad in a highly competitive Western Conference. This performance is largely driven by Luka Doncic, whose historic start features averages of 39.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game.
In the Eastern Conference, the Philadelphia 76ers are playing with a cohesion that suggests they have been teammates for years. New acquisitions LeBron James and Jaylen Brown have integrated seamlessly with their new colleagues. They are closely followed by the Boston Celtics, their offseason trade partners, who have maintained their momentum with new players joining Jayson Tatum's core.
ESPN insiders have released this week's Power Rankings, highlighting the top newcomer for each of the 30 teams. The Houston Rockets hold the number one spot with an 8-3 record. Their best addition is veteran guard Marcus Smart, who provides veteran leadership and tenacious defense. Smart is a familiar face to coach Ime Udoka and offers a reliable second ball handler, particularly valuable while Fred VanVleet recovers from last year's ACL surgery.
The Los Angeles Lakers rank second, also with an 8-3 record. Their standout newcomer is center Walker Kessler, who had a memorable debut with 26 points on perfect shooting. Kessler has remained a durable and efficient presence, averaging 14.9 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks while shooting 69.1% from the field. His ability to play over 30 minutes per game while committing only 2.9 fouls is a critical asset for the Lakers.
The Oklahoma City Thunder sit in third place at 8-3. Rookie center Aday Mara, selected 12th overall, has made an immediate impact as an elite rim protector. He ranks fifth in the league with 1.9 blocks per game and also shows promise as a passer and rebounder. The Philadelphia 76ers are fourth, with Jaylen Brown cited as their top newcomer. Brown has had a strong recent stretch, scoring 30 points against Detroit and 29 against Chicago, leading teammate Tyrese Maxey to describe him as something the team really needed.
The Boston Celtics are fifth with a 9-2 record, the best in the East. Paul George is their key new addition, breaking the franchise record for points in a debut with 38 on opening night. He has since become a top-tier wing defender and a reliable offensive option. Coach Joe Mazzulla praised George's impact both on and off the court.
The Minnesota Timberwolves, at 8-3, are benefiting from the trade for LaMelo Ball, who has formed a dynamic partnership with Anthony Edwards. Even with Edwards sidelined by knee surgery, Ball has kept the offense in the top 10. Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors, at 8-3, are seeing incredible production from rookie Yaxel Lendeborg, who is averaging 21.4 points and 7.2 rebounds, exceeding the goals he set for himself during the summer.
Other notable newcomers include Tarris Reed Jr. for the Spurs, Andre Drummond for the Knicks, and Giannis Antetokounmpo for the Heat. Antetokounmpo has been a standout for Miami, scoring 25 or more points in seven of his first 10 games. These early performances are shaping the narrative for the rest of the season, with teams like the Lakers, Thunder, and Rockets setting a high bar for the rest of the league.
