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NBA Power Rankings, Week 5: The kids are alright

The Oklahoma City Thunder have settled nicely into place among the NBA's elite this season, and that spot appears to be secure even without James Harden. While no expert has the Thunder ranked at the very top, it is clear that this team is well-respected and will be just fine moving forward.

Former Thunder player Byron Mullens is defended by Thunder power forward Serge Ibaka.
Former Thunder player Byron Mullens is defended by Thunder power forward Serge Ibaka.
Mark D. Smith-US PRESSWIRE
Source Ranking Comment
SBNation 3 The need for Kevin Martin's offense off the bench has been highlighted recently in games where it failed to get going.
NBA.com 4 The Thunder got their first important win of the season over the Clippers, but their defense continues to slope downward.
Sporting News 5 Serge Ibaka has helped fill the scoring column this season, scoring in double digits in 12 straight games up until the Thunder's blowout win over Charlotte Monday night.
Bleacher Report 4 Oklahoma City is one of the NBA's best teams, but it could be even better if Scott Brooks played better lineups.
ESPN-Hollinger 6 N/A
NBC Sports 4 The Thunder looked like themselves against the Clippers, but their bad defensive effort cannot continue.
Fox Sports 6 The recovery from the James Harden trade is not over, but the Thunder will be fine for two reasons: Durant and Westbrook.