Rockets Rise Behind Alperen Sengun

Injuries have already flipped the 2026-27 NBA season, from Oklahoma City losing Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace to long-term issues to Minnesota losing Anthony Edwards for up to two months. The early power rankings still have Houston on top after quality wins over San Antonio, Dallas and Atlanta twice, while Boston, Philadelphia and San Antonio are right behind. Memphis is 5-0, Luka Dončić has the Lakers at 4-1, and Cooper Flagg is putting up huge numbers for Dallas. The Thunder's depth is getting its biggest test, while the Wolves now need LaMelo Ball to carry more offense. Houston looks real behind Alperen Şengün and a deep rotation, but the season is only a week old. Several teams are already trying to survive injuries before they can show who they really are.