As the NBA trade deadline approaches, teams are gearing up for potential moves that could shape the remainder of the season. With the playoffs on the horizon, it's make or break for many organizations hoping to bolster their rosters. The Athletic's NBA Power Rankings are here to shed light on which teams are looking to make a move and where they currently stand in the league hierarchy.

The Power Rankings, known for dividing teams into tiers based on their performance and potential, provide a comprehensive overview of each organization's position in the league. With seven new categories, ranging from teams eyeing a Play-In spot to legitimate championship contenders, the rankings offer valuable insights into each team's prospects.

Coming off a season full of rebuilding and retooling, some teams believe they are ready to crack the top 10 in their respective conferences. These squads, dubbed "Looking to make the Play-In," see the deadline as an opportunity to make a significant push and solidify their chances of a playoff berth.

Others find themselves comfortably in the mix, labeled as "Play-In Tournament teams or better." These organizations are expected to secure a spot in the playoffs unless they encounter any disastrous setbacks over the remaining games.

For the playoff teams, worries about dropping down to the Play-In Tournament seem minimal. These squads have displayed consistency and a level of dominance that puts them firmly in playoff contention.

Meanwhile, there are organizations teetering on the brink of contention, just one impactful move away from making analysts believe they have what it takes to win the ultimate prize, the NBA championship. These teams, classified as "On the brink of contention," are actively searching for that missing piece that could propel them into title contention.

Lastly, the true contenders, known simply as "Contenders," are those teams that are very much in the hunt for the championship. Barring any massive injuries, these organizations have positioned themselves as legitimate threats to claim the coveted NBA title.

While the Power Rankings are subjective and rely on the discretion of the ranking committee, they take into account both short-term performances and long-term potential. Each team is evaluated based on their current success and how they are positioned for future success.

As the trade deadline looms, front offices will be engaging in intense negotiations, seeking to bolster their rosters and improve their chances of playoff success. The coming days will be critical for teams across the league, as they carefully consider the impact each potential move could have on their playoff aspirations.

With Week 16 of The Athletic's NBA Power Rankings now live, fans and analysts alike can gain valuable insights into each team's current standing. As always, there may be disagreements, particularly regarding favorite teams, but the rankings serve as a valuable tool for understanding where each organization stands amidst the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA.

Please note that all stats and records mentioned in this article are accurate as of Monday's games, providing a snapshot of where each team stands heading into the trade deadline.