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First installment of ESPN power rankings showing Celtics zero respect

Despite a strong 3-1 start, Boston took an unexpected dip in ESPN’s latest NBA power rankings. Here’s why the Celtics are getting slept on.

Published: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 11:30 PM
First installment of ESPN power rankings showing Celtics zero respect
Key Things to Know
  • Hardwood Houdini argues ESPN showed the Boston Celtics zero respect by ranking them eighth in week-one power rankings.
  • The Celtics dropped two spots from sixth to eighth despite starting the season with a 3-1 record.
  • Writer Ben Handler questions why the Toronto Raptors jumped Boston while missing Kawhi Leonard.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Hardwood Houdini writer Ben Handler argues that ESPN showed the Boston Celtics a lack of respect by dropping them to eighth in its week-one power rankings. Despite opening the season with a 3-1 record and winning three straight games after an opening loss to Detroit, Boston fell two spots from its preseason ranking of sixth.

Handler takes issue with several teams being ranked ahead of Boston, specifically criticizing ESPN for placing the Toronto Raptors at seventh despite Kawhi Leonard's injury. He also criticizes the placements of the Minnesota Timberwolves at second and the Los Angeles Lakers at sixth, claiming both rankings are unjustified based on their rosters and schedules.

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