Are the 76ers and Hornets Turning Into Legitimate Eastern Contenders?

The Philadelphia 76ers and Charlotte Hornets are highlighted as the two teams making the most significant surge in the latest NBA power rankings, emerging as serious threats in the Eastern Conference as the season enters its critical final stretch.

The Charlotte Hornets are on a remarkable nine-game winning streak and could extend it to ten with a victory against the Detroit Pistons, a feat not accomplished by the franchise in decades. During this run, they rank among the league's top teams in both offensive and defensive efficiency, outscoring opponents by an average of 12.7 points per game. While perhaps not seen as outright title contenders, their transformation under coach Charles Lee has made them a dangerous, young team that no top Eastern Conference opponent would want to face in a playoff series.

The Philadelphia 76ers have also elevated their play, winning six of their last seven games to break into the top 10 of the power rankings. A key factor has been the health and MVP-level performance of star Joel Embiid, who has missed only one game recently. His sustained health, particularly concerning his knee, remains the critical question for Philadelphia's postseason hopes. The team is positioned just behind the East's elite and is competing for home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.

In a related update on the power rankings, the San Antonio Spurs have reclaimed the top spot, partly due to the Oklahoma City Thunder's struggles. The Spurs have established themselves as legitimate title contenders in the West through strong defense and consistent offense. While Victor Wembanyama draws attention, second-year guard Stephon Castle has been a major difference-maker, recently making history as the youngest player ever to record a 40-point, 12-rebound, 12-assist game.

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