Power Rankings Poll Week 10: The day late Christmas edition

It occurred to me sometime this morning that Christmas was on a Monday. Knowing what I know now, the Power Ranking People (PRP) would not be taking a break. (Well, OK, some of us took a break.) The Poll... must go on — even if it’s a day late.

The Raptors were blessed with the day off. Their last game was on the 23rd, and like many of us, the team got to enjoy the holiday season with their families on both Christmas Eve and the day itself. That’s nice — despite the narrative lately regarding whether or not the Raptors deserve a Christmas Day game. I’m fine without one, but I get why it would be seen as a mark of respect. Especially since some po-dunk ass teams have gotten to shine on the day. Whatever.

With the Raptors having won 12 of their last 13 games, you have to know they’d be getting some love today from the PRP. What do they say? Buckle up.

First up, we have the late-breaking news from ESPN and some dude named Michael Schwartz:

4. Toronto Raptors (Last Week: 6)

The hottest team in the NBA? That's the Raptors, who have won 12 of their past 13 games. Toronto leads the league in defensive efficiency during this span after ranking 14th over its first 18 games.

Hey, that’s what I just said! The Raptors can’t stop winning, and really were just a bad few minutes in LA away from a 13-game win streak. I’m not bitter about this information at all. (Likewise, the hottest team in the league... is ranked 4th?)

[cues up Christmas music]

Enjoy this interlude here now as both Sports Illustrated and NBA.com have not provided updated Power Rankings as of yet. The PRP Society will be convening to determine how dedicated both Ducey and Dr. John are to the cause. This is a serious matter — don’t let the placid music fool you.

[Christmas music ends]

[ripping guitar solo begins]

The purpose of even writing this column today — the reason for the season, as it were — is because of the delicious information one finds on the CBS Sports site today. Here’s our friend Chris Barnewall with the final word:

1. Toronto Raptors (Last Week: 4)

All the Raptors want for Christmas is a season where they look impressive in the playoffs. They don't even have to win everything. Just look good doing it.

Joy to the world! Despite once ranking the Raptors in the middle of the pack not long ago, Toronto has now ascended to the top of the heap. The hottest team in the league! The best! The most fun and good! I’d like to dedicate this ranking to our original antagonist, Matt Moore, and I’d like to run through the streets like Ebenezer Scrooge gifting Christmas gooses to everyone.

Sure, it’s not still Christmas Day, but this is perhaps... the greatest gift of all.

Now, on to the poll.