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2016-17 NBA Power Rankings: Regular season week one edition

LeBron James and company will begin the year on top of the power rankings, based only on the fact the Cavs’ won last seasons championship. This team still has the players to win back-to-back titles, but it will take a big effort with several teams from around the league making big improvements over the summer.

Golden State set a league record for wins in 2016, but failed to turn that momentum into a title, but the addition of Kevin Durant through free agency could change that as this franchise looks to create a dynasty and it could all start by making a third straight trip to the finals and a second title in that time span.

Finding the next best team in the NBA is more difficult with several squads looking to move up the ladder. San Antonio is expected to challenge for a top-3 spot in the Western Conference and have a shot at making an early season statement with their opener against the Warriors. Despite Tim Duncan retiring, Pau Gasol was brought in to fill that role in the paint and with some early momentum, this franchise could have a special year.

The LA Clippers are looking to rebound from injuries and a disappointing season. With a healthy Blake Griffin, this team could challenge Golden State and San Antonio, but health will play be a major factor in how this team performs this season.

Toronto and Boston are both expected to give Cleveland a battle in the east. The Raptors have set a franchise record for wins for three straight years, but are still searching for that star player in the front court that could lead this team into the finals. The Celtics are arguably the most improved franchise over the last 12 months and the addition of Al Horford could make this the team to watch in the east.

One of the best opening contests on the schedule has Toronto hosting Detroit, another franchise on the rise. The Pistons could make an early season statement with a tough road win and set the stage for a big year.

The LA Clippers open their season on the road against Portland, a big early season game between two teams that want to become legitimate title contenders in the league, making this one of the best match ups in week 1 on the west coast.

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