1. Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers have benefited from Anderson Varejao’s recuperation. Additionally, LeBron James is making an impression in each game. Mo Williams is also playing well. With the exception of the defeat in Los Angeles on previous Friday, the Cavs have done everything right. This team deserves an A+ grade.
2. Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics have overcome every challenge that has come their way and the team has not been satisfied after winning any championship. At present, the going is smooth for this team and it can be given an A+ grade.
3. Orlando Magic
During the first 41 games in this season, Orlando Magic has been defeated in consecutive games only once. The team looks identical to a group of veterans who have been playing with each other for a long time. In reality, Hedo Turkoglu, Jameer Nelson and Rashard Lewis have been combined around Dwight Howard and this is their second season. Still the team has attained those things, which it missed when Shaquille O’Neal was a part of this team. This team can be offered Grade A+.
4. Los Angeles Lakers
When Kobe Bryant lost his second Finals, he contemplated on the situation and returned to his team determined to ameliorate his teammates and maintain their interest throughout the season. So far, he has been successful in his aim. Andrew Bynum has regained the imposing form he had before he got injured, during the first half of the previous season. The partnership with Pau Gasol is producing good results. This team deserves grade A+.
5. San Antonio Spurs
In the San Antonio Spurs, finding replacements for Jacque Vaughn, Brent Barry and Robert Horry has been a difficult task. However, the team is not lagging behind other teams although it is filled with young players. Manu Ginobili is temporarily absent, but his absence has been overcome by Roger Mason Jr., who has been a great find. In this season so far, nobody has asked the question whether what was wrong with this team. Grade A- may be given to this team.
6. Denver Nuggets
Kenyon Martin and Nene are playing on the court in such a way as if they never had knee problems. The trade of Chauncey Billups and Allen Iverson has proved to be very effective. Although Carmelo Anthony has been out of the team since 7th January 2009, the burden has been eased by Chris Andersen, J.R. Smith and Linas Kleiza. This team can be given Grade A.
7. Portland Trail Blazers
The season did not start on a good note for Greg Oden and so it was predicted that the team would have to try too hard to settle. His injury may turn out to be a blessing in disguise and while he was recovering, the team managed to play well. Recently, Oden has rejoined his team and this is a sort of situation in which all involved are benefited. Due to this, the team may finish in the top half of the Western Conference. It can be given Grade A-.