Gallery: 7/11
5. L.A. Clippers
Record: 16-6
Last week: 4th
After going on a run of 11 wins in 12 games, there was chatter that the Clippers could very well be the best team in the NBA much less the Western Conference. Since then, Doc Rivers' squad has lost four of its last six, most recently losing to the Pacers at home Sunday night. Preceding that loss was a 3-3 road trip that included a blowout win over the Cavaliers and a double overtime loss to the Nets. The bench, which was a strength during the aforementioned 11-1 run, has not been as consistent of late and that's been an issue for L.A. With Chris Paul and Blake Griffin leading the way this stretch shouldn't be anything more than a minor hiccup, but they'll need greater contributions from the reserves if this group is to threaten Golden State in the West. (Getty)
