NBA power rankings place Lakers in middle tier without LeBron James

The latest NBA power rankings list the Los Angeles Lakers among contenders in the Western Conference. Despite the absence of LeBron James, the Lakers are seen as capable, sharing space with the Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets, and Minnesota Timberwolves. Reports indicate that the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs are viewed as the top teams in the West. The Kings and Pelicans, who are struggling during the offseason, round out the lower tiers of the rankings. The Lakers' future in the rankings will depend on their performance as the season approaches.

• 3:36 PMYahoo Sports — NBA Power Rankings: Where do the Lakers stand in the West without LeBron James?