NBA standings after 12 games: Celtics atop, Nuggets chase
The Celtics lead the NBA with 30 points after 12 games, while the Nuggets sit second with 27 points.
The NBA's early-season table after 12 games shows the Celtics firmly in first place with 30 points, reflecting a 10‑2 record.
Boston's 10 wins out of 12 give them a perfect win‑percentage and a two‑point cushion over Denver, who have amassed 27 points from nine victories.
The Nuggets' 9‑3 record keeps them within striking distance, but they must improve to close the gap as the Celtics continue to win.
Milwaukee sits third with 24 points from eight wins, while the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks are tied at 21 points each, both holding 7‑5 records, creating a tight battle for the fourth spot.
The Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns share the sixth spot with 18 points each, both at 6‑6, indicating a mid‑table cluster where a single win can shift rankings.
Dallas trails with 15 points from five wins, and the Philadelphia 76ers and Minnesota Timberwolves are tied at the bottom of the top ten with 12 points each, both at 4‑8 records.
As the season progresses, the early gap between the Celtics and the rest of the league highlights Boston's strong start, while the tightly packed middle of the table suggests that upcoming matchups could dramatically reshape the playoff picture.
