NBA MVP Power Rankings: Jayson Tatum falls, new name jumps into top five

On Saturday night, the Dallas Mavericks took on the Oklahoma City Thunder and lost 126-120. The Mavericks made a historic effort to come back and make this a game, but down the stretch, they lost the juice to close it out.

At one point, the Mavericks were on a franchise-high 30-0 run, which got them back in the game and a lead late in the fourth quarter.

The Absence of Kyrie Irving could have contributed to the Mavs being stale on offense throughout the game. He would miss the game and potentially more time after suffering a foot injury in the Mavericks' loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.

NBA MVP Power Rankings: Jayson Tatum falls, new name jumps into top five

Another Maverick that failed to suit up was sixth man Tim Hardaway Jr. He has missed a few games with a back injury. Had he been available in the game against the Thunder, the final score could have been reversed.

The Mavericks have now failed to secure a win in their last two games, and it couldn't come at a worse time as they have been battling the injury bug the last few weeks. To pour more salt into the wounds of Mavs fans, the schedule will only get tougher as the winter months carry on.

Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving will not only need to stay healthy but play some of their best basketball if the Mavericks wish to not tread water.

Despite the lackluster start to December, Doncic has continued to make his MVP case strong. Let's take a look around the league at this week's MVP Power Rankings.

10. Bam Adebayo

Last week's rank: N/A

Adebayo has continued to have a career year by leading the Miami Heat this season. He has not looked like an MVP candidate but also a DPOY candidate. The Heat's season is only getting hotter as the season grows older; expect Adebayo to rise on this list.

9. Kevin Durant

Last week's rank: N/A

The Phoenix Suns have rebounded after a slow start, in large part due to Kevin Durant's play on the court. He, along with Devin Booker, has led the Suns to some huge wins over great teams.

8. Anthony Edwards

Last week's rank: N/A

Edwards was once in the top five after leading the Timberwolves to one of the league's best records. The Wolves still hold one of the NBA's best records, but Edwards has dropped off in production.

7. Jayson Tatum

Last week's rank: 5

Tatum and the Celtics still hold the league's best record, but they are skimming by. After losing to the Pacers last night, it was clear that they have some holes. Tatum is still one of the best players in the NBA but has looked stale in the last few games.

6. Tyrese Haliburton

Last week's rank: NA

Haliburton and the Pacers have gone off the last few games. Beating the Celtics in the In-Season Tournament quarterfinals was the icing on the cake. Expect to see more of Haliburton if he continues to play at this rate.