In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder sit atop the standings, but their 16-game win streak ends after a rare loss in the NBA Cup semifinal to the Spurs, with the Nuggets staying close at No. 2 as the Jazz and Grizzlies re-enter play-in contention.

San Antonio Spurs are 18-7 and thriving without Victor Wembanyama for stretches, boosted by a strong guard trio of De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper.

Denver Nuggets feature Nikola Jokić averaging a triple-double with career highs in points and assists, and Jamal Murray pursuing his first All-Star selection as the team boasts the most efficient offense in NBA history when both stars share the floor.

The season is being continuously evaluated as it moves toward the New Year, with attention to potential playoff implications and trade considerations based on ongoing matchups.

The Bulls sit at the bottom of the standings, burdened by an 8-loss in 9-game stretch against many sub-.500 teams, prompting questions about direction and performance.

Charlotte Hornets face questions about LaMelo Ball’s health and future, signaling possible roster rethinking and trade considerations.

Across the league, Giannis Antetokounmpo trade chatter surrounds the Bucks, while rookies and young players drive improvements for teams like the Pelicans, Nets, Spurs, and Hornets, with injury impacts on the Magic and potential return for Raptors’ JR Barrett.

Other notable shifts include Wizards’ rebuilding optimism with young talent, Nets benefiting from Porter’s scoring and rookies, Pelicans juggling Zion Williamson’s injuries but showing rookie-derived upside, and Bulls and Hornets sliding due to offensive and defensive inefficiencies.

Cleveland Cavaliers face injuries and inconsistency, with Donovan Mitchell acknowledging the rough stretch as the team looks to rebound against a slate of divisional opponents.

At 15-12, the Cavaliers contend with inconsistency and injuries, lining up a series of East opponents to regain form.

Injuries and rotations are noted, including Austin Reaves’ calf issue for the Lakers, Bones Hyland earning more minutes for Minnesota, and Jalen Brunson leading the Knicks with high-volume 3-point shooting.

The Minnesota Timberwolves rise to No. 8 amid Edwards’ injury challenges and ongoing trade talks for a playmaker to bolster the roster.