Which early top-five team has the best shot at winning the 2026 NBA title?
Thunder Take Top Spot in Way-Too-Early 2025–26 NBA Power Rankings
ESPN has released its way-too-early NBA Power Rankings for the 2025–26 season, with the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder securing the top spot. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren, the Thunder are considered favorites to repeat. Trailing closely are the Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and a revamped Houston Rockets team now featuring Kevin Durant. Boston dropped to 12th after Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury, while Dallas landed at 14. With off-season trades and free agency still to come, these rankings offer a first glimpse into the title contenders for next season.
Options
- Oklahoma City Thunder
- Minnesota Timberwolves
- Denver Nuggets
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Houston Rockets