Using Phil Jackson's '40-20 rule,' which dictates contenders must win 40 games before 20 losses, the rankings highlight the Oklahoma City Thunder (42-14) and Detroit Pistons (40-13) as the top teams. The San Antonio Spurs are close, while the Boston Celtics are an outside shot.
Below the top tier, the Sacramento Kings are holding onto coach Doug Christie despite their 12-44 record, while the Washington Wizards are sidelined by injuries to Anthony Davis and Trae Young.