The Boston Celtics' reign on top the standings has finally ended, and what could be a more poetic way for that to happen than at the hands of their long-time rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, thanks to a buzzer-beater from former Celtics star Rajon Rondo. The Lakers bounced back nicely from a 42-point drumming against the Pacers, proving that they obviously have no use for megastar trade target Anthony Davis. Jokes aside, this would've been an easy time for the Lakers to crumble, but credit to them for digging deep and besting the Celtics on the road after being down by 18 points.
The San Antonio Spurs, much like they have for the entire Gregg Popovich era, have flown under the radar so far this season, clinging onto the 7 seed in the West. Their positive standing doesn't save them in this week's rankings, however, as they occupy the number 30 spot after a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. Spurs fans may lament the fact that their team was quiet as the trade deadline past, but the roster is still solid, and the front office is the most stable and reliable in the NBA.
Here are the current NBA Power Rankings, as determined by Ric Flair's legendary quote, "To be the man, you gotta beat the man":
