NBA Power Rankings: Heavy’s Top 10 for January 9


6. Boston


Record: 23-14


Last week: 7th


Winners of four straight, the Celtics move up a spot simply because they managed to take care of business in game they're expected to win. Utah was the most formidable opponent of the three Boston defeated last week, with Philadelphia proving to be more of a challenge than many anticipated and the same going for New Orleans. While Isaiah Thomas gets the pub and rightfully so, Marcus Smart has raised his level of play in recent games. After tallying 14 points and eight assists against the 76ers on Friday, Smart finished Sunday's win over New Orleans with 22 points and six assists. If he can continue to provide double-digit scoring off the bench to go along with his defense, Smart makes Boston an even better team. (Getty)

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