NBA: Monthly Power Rankings

1. Milwaukee Bucks (60-22, 5-1, +0): The Bucks made quick work of the Detroit Pistons in the first round and now have a series against the Boston Celtics to look forward to. After going down without much of a fight in Game 1, the Bucks rebounded for a big performance in Game 2 to tie the series. Milwaukee came out on top 123-102 behind 29 points, and 10 rebounds from Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks are averaging a league-high 118.1 points.

2. Golden State Warriors (57-25, 6-2, +0): The Warriors didn't look their best against the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round, but they have rebounded for two straight wins over the Houston Rockets. After Golden State took Game 1 by four points, they protected home court in Game 2 as well, winning 115-109. The team was extremely balanced, which is obviously one of their best attributes, as all five starters scored 10+ points. Kevin Durant dropped 29 points.

3. Toronto Raptors (58-24, 5-2, +0): The Raptors looked like they might be the best team in the Eastern Conference after their domination over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 1, taking it 108-95 behind 45 points and 11 rebounds from Kawhi Leonard. However, they couldn't keep up the momentum in Game 2 and fell by five. Toronto can reach the NBA Finals, but they have to become more consistent. Kyle Lowry has to keep up his play heading on the road.

4. Denver Nuggets (54-28, 5-3, +0): The Nuggets barely survived the San Antonio Spurs in the first round, but looked all the part of a 54-win team in their 121-113 victory against the Portland Trail Blazers in Game 1. Nikola Jokic was amazing to say the least as he was the best player on the court, compiling 37 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. He should be able to dominate Enes Kanter all series long, and if he can, the Nuggets will likely advance again.

5. Houston Rockets (53-29, 4-3, +5): The Rockets got by the Utah Jazz with relative ease after getting up 3-0 and closing it out at home in Game 5. But now a matchup against the Warriors is a much different task. And now that Houston trails 2-0 already, it's only going to be tougher to pull off. Houston ranks fifth in the league in point differential at +4.8 points. They are shooting 35.6% from three-point range in this series, which will have to hit 40.0% to win.

Next Up:

6. Trail Blazers (53-29, +3)

7. 76ers (51-31, +0)

8. Celtics (49-33, -2)

9. Clippers (48-34, +2)

10. Thunder (49-33, -5)

Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated.