The 2025-26 NBA season kicks off with the Oklahoma City Thunder sitting atop the Week 1 Power Rankings. After winning their first championship in the 2024-25 season, the Thunder are primed for a repeat with a returning core that had the fourth-best point differential in league history last season. The team is favored to win the championship again, garnering 80% of general managers’ votes, the fifth-highest figure in 24 years of the NBA GM Survey.
Key Details of Current Power Rankings
- Teams in the Top Five:
- 1. Oklahoma City Thunder
- 2. Denver Nuggets
- 3. Cleveland Cavaliers
- 4. New York Knicks
- 5. Minnesota Timberwolves
Thunder’s Dominance and Expectations
The Thunder’s roster remains intact, retaining their top 11 players from the playoffs last season. Players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren are expected to elevate their performance. Despite Jalen Williams undergoing wrist surgery, the team exhibits resilience and depth, fundamental traits for a title defense. The defending champions open their season with a home game against the Houston Rockets, a team they dominated in previous encounters.
Season Preview for Key Teams
- Denver Nuggets: With Nikola Jokić leading, they remain a formidable opponent but are looking to improve bench performance.
- Cleveland Cavaliers: High expectations loom after a disappointing playoff exit despite a strong regular season.
- New York Knicks: Under new coaching, they seek a shift in dynamics after their best season in years.
- Golden State Warriors: They’re banking on seasoned players to maintain competitiveness, wanting to leverage their opening games effectively.
Preseason Results and Trends
Preseason performances highlight various team strengths and weaknesses:
- Oklahoma City Thunder: 4-2 preseason record with a efficient offense led by Gilgeous-Alexander.
- Denver Nuggets: Scored 136 points per 100 possessions in key minutes with starters while addressing bench concerns.
- Cleveland Cavaliers: Adjustments needed to maximize playmaking as they face a challenging start.
- New York Knicks: Hoping to improve pace and shot clock management under new coach Mike Brown.
Potential Breakout Players
Several players are expected to make significant impacts:
- Chet Holmgren: Look for offensive growth as he eases back into the lineup for the Thunder.
- Anthony Edwards: Aiming for improved consistency for the Timberwolves after a strong past season.
- Victor Wembanyama: Anticipated development for Spurs’ young star as the team seeks to break their playoff drought.
Conclusion
The NBA landscape is set for an exciting start this season, with the Thunder correctly positioned as favorites in the Week 1 Power Rankings. Expect fierce competition as teams aim for success in the new campaign, signaling potential thrilling matchups and surprises ahead.
