Northwest Division Power Rankings: Week One

Portland Trail Blazers Caleb Swanigan (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)
Portland Trail Blazers Caleb Swanigan (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)
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Utah fell to third in the rankings this week, but would likely be higher if they had held on last Friday. Utah led Golden State 123-122 with less than 10 seconds to play, before Jonas Jerebko tipped in a put back to take a 124-123 victory away from Utah. The crushing loss to the Warriors came on the heels of a 123-117 victory in Sacramento. Utah has been deadly from downtown this season, as their 16 three point field goals made per game ranks second in the Association.

The Jazz remain one of the most balanced team in the NBA. Six Utah players average double digit points this season. Center Rudy Gobert has been a one man wrecking crew, averaging 17.5 points, 13 rebounds, and two blocks per game. Utah has been one of the most efficient teams in the league, with all but one player on the roster registering a positive player efficiency rating.

Utah (1-1) hosts the Memphis Grizzlies before hitting the road to play the Houston Rockets, New Orleans Pelicans, and the Dallas Maverics.