NBA 2025-26 Season Preview: Rankings, Predictions for All 30 Teams

With the 2025-26 NBA season just around the corner, anticipation is at an all-time high. Fans are eager to see how the off-season moves will reshape the league landscape. This season marks the 80th in NBA history, and numerous teams are looking to make their mark. Below is a preview of all 30 teams, focusing on key facts, player changes, and the path ahead.

NBA 2025-26 Season Preview: Rankings and Predictions for All 30 Teams

Key Facts and Player Movements

• The Oklahoma City Thunder are coming off a Championship win against the Indiana Pacers.
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named MVP following a stellar series.
• Kevin Durant begins his career with the Houston Rockets after leaving the Phoenix Suns.
• Damian Lillard returns to the Portland Trail Blazers, although he will miss the season due to injury.

Injuries Impacting Teams

• Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton are also out for the season following torn Achilles tendons.
• Kyrie Irving’s status for the Dallas Mavericks remains uncertain after an ACL tear last season.

Rising Rookies

• Cooper Flagg, the first overall 2025 draft pick, is expected to make an immediate impact with the Mavericks.
• Dylan Harper, the No. 2 pick, joins the San Antonio Spurs and aims to make waves in rookie rankings.

Returning Stars and Expectations

• LeBron James enters his record 23rd season, aiming for his fifth championship with the Los Angeles Lakers.
• Anthony Edwards continues to prepare to solidify his status as a superstar with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Team Previews

Oklahoma City Thunder

After a record-setting championship, the Thunder boast the tightest defense in the league, previously allowing only 106.6 points per 100 possessions. Their depth is complemented by multiple All-Defensive players. While complacency could be a concern, the team’s focus on improvement bodes well for their prospects.

Denver Nuggets

With Nikola Jokic leading the team, the Nuggets seek to bolster their roster, improving depth with veteran additions. However, their defensive strategies need reevaluation after last season’s poor defensive ratings.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavaliers, coming off a 64-win season, aim to improve on their playoff position. They boast strong defensive big men but will have to navigate injury concerns affecting key players early on.

New York Knicks

With championship aspirations in sight, the Knicks must maintain health among their roster. Jalen Brunson remains a key player, while the coaching staff looks to leverage their experience to navigate the challenging Eastern Conference.

Houston Rockets

Durant’s arrival marks a new era for the Rockets, but they face challenges without seasoned point guard Fred VanVleet. Coach Ime Udoka prioritizes team cohesion to leverage their size and physicality.

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers look to maximize both LeBron James and Luka Doncic’s playmaking abilities while overcoming the challenges presented by James’ health. Their success hinges on a stronger center presence this season.

Atlanta Hawks

With Trae Young leading an impressive supporting cast, including Porzingis and Johnson, the Hawks aim to prove their potency, provided they can maintain their roster’s health.

Indiana Pacers

In the absence of Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers look to maintain their competitive edge and develop young talent while navigating transitional phases in their strategy.

Portland Trail Blazers

Despite Lillard’s absence, the Trail Blazers can rely on a strong defensive setup but will need to enhance their offensive output to remain competitive in the West.

Sacramento Kings & Toronto Raptors

Both franchises are transitioning with a focus on developing youth. The Kings may be entering a rebuild phase, while the Raptors aim to improve their playoff chances with a solid core.

Conclusion

The NBA 2025-26 season is poised for excitement as fans watch how teams adjust to injuries, off-season trades, and rookie debuts. The quest for the championship intensifies as teams prepare for the long road ahead, hoping to make the playoffs. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal in setting the stage for this unforgettable season.