NBA 2025-26 Predictions: Who will compete for the championship?

NBA Predictions for the 2025-26 Season

The 80th NBA season is approaching, and expectations are high. We analyze the predictions for the 2025-26 season, including the teams with the greatest potential and the candidates for individual awards. In addition, we explore the projections for the Eastern and Western conferences, as well as the possible league champion. The Oklahoma City Thunder will look to become the first team to win back-to-back championships since 2018, breaking the streak of seven different champions. However, the competition will be fierce. The Cleveland Cavaliers, after a standout regular season, will face an Eastern Conference marked by injuries. The New York Knicks, with Mike Brown as the new coach, also have playoff experience and could be a rival to consider. Experts from Alofoke Deportes have evaluated the teams from both conferences to determine the favorites and the possible NBA champion. Below are the results.

Who will win the Eastern Conference final?

Could the Cleveland Cavaliers be crowned Eastern Conference champions in 2025-26?

• Cleveland Cavaliers: 98 points
• New York Knicks: 72 points
• Orlando Magic: 21 points
• Milwaukee Bucks: 7 points
• Indiana Pacers: 3 points

The Cavaliers, despite the absences of Darius Garland and Max Strus due to injuries, are still favorites. The Knicks’ flexibility, thanks to their financial situation, could be a key factor in reinforcing their squad. The Magic’s ambitious trade for Desmond Bane indicates their intention to compete for the conference title. Time will tell if this gamble pays off.

The Knicks’ flexibility, thanks to their financial situation, could be a key factor in reinforcing their squad.

Brian Windhorst

Who will win the Western Conference final?

Will the 2025-26 NBA champion come from the Western Conference?

• Oklahoma City Thunder: 106 points
• Denver Nuggets: 50 points
• Houston Rockets: 35 points
• Los Angeles Lakers/Minnesota Timberwolves: 7 points
• Golden State Warriors: 2 points

The Thunder are the favorites to revalidate the title. The Rockets, with the incorporation of Kevin Durant, could be a dangerous rival. The Nuggets, after a good season, will seek to surpass the Thunder. Oklahoma City has prioritized keeping its core of key players, making them strong contenders to repeat as Western Conference champions.

Oklahoma City has prioritized keeping its core of key players, making them strong contenders to repeat as Western Conference champions.

Michael C. Wright

Who will win the 2026 NBA Finals?

The Oklahoma City Thunder were crowned champions of the Western Conference and the NBA Finals in the 2024-25 season.

• Oklahoma City Thunder: 101 points
• Denver Nuggets: 36 points
• Cleveland Cavaliers: 27 points
• Houston Rockets: 21 points
• New York Knicks: 11 points

According to predictions, the Thunder have a high probability of ending the streak of different champions. The team is expected to improve, driven by the development of its young talents and the leadership of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The 2023 champion Nuggets are seen as the main challenge for the Thunder. The Cavaliers hope to emulate their success in the Eastern Conference. The Rockets, with the addition of Kevin Durant, enter the conversation as contenders.