NBA Finals power rankings for remaining playoff teams
The NBA playoffs are heating up. The New York Knicks are the first team to cement their place in the Conference Finals. The team’s sweep of the Philadelphia 76ers has the Knicks poised to achieve their goal of reaching the NBA Finals.
Here are the updated NBA Finals power rankings as of May 11 th . MORE: Luka Doncic faces intensified criticism from Ric Flair as Lakers near playoff exit 7. Los Angeles Lakers Apr 24, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward/guard Luka Doncic shakes hands with forward LeBron James (23) during the third quarter against the Houston Rockets during game three of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center.
Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images The Lakers are hanging on for their lives. Already down 3-0, Los Angeles can see its playoff run come to an end with a loss on Monday night. They’ve hung around in the first half of games but have fallen by double-digits in all three losses.
6. Cleveland Cavaliers The Cavaliers’ offense ranked among the top teams in the playoffs, but Detroit’s defense has made the difference. However, Cleveland pulled off a much-needed win during game three.
If the Cavaliers are to pull even in the series, they must find a way to win during Monday’s game four in Cleveland. 5. Detroit Pistons It goes without saying that defense can carry a team in the playoffs.