With the NBA season approaching, predictions and expectations are swirling around teams and players as they gear up for the 2025-26 season. Here are 24 bold predictions that capture a mix of anticipated triumphs and unexpected twists on the court.
Firstly, Nikola Jokic is projected to win his fourth MVP award as the Denver Nuggets secure their second consecutive NBA championship. Jokic, often regarded as the best player in the league, has the stats to back it up, including an unparalleled true shooting percentage among players who have taken at least 10,000 shots. With a retooled roster that includes a deeper bench, the Nuggets are primed for success.
On the flip side, the Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid is predicted not to reach the conference finals, highlighting ongoing concerns surrounding his health and team dynamics.
In an intriguing trade prediction, the Golden State Warriors may part ways with Jonathan Kuminga, capitalizing on his new contract to potentially swap him for veteran talent that aligns better with the team’s championship aspirations.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are expected to maintain their defensive dominance, building on last year’s top-ranked defense, aided by a fully healthy roster and motivated players eager to defend their title. Similarly, the Houston Rockets are anticipated to field the most dominant starting five, featuring an impressive mix of height and skill that could pose serious matchup problems for opponents.
The Los Angeles Clippers are foreseen to challenge for their franchise win record, combining the experience of several veteran players with talent that could lead to a formidable season.
John Collins is also highlighted as a candidate for Sixth Man of the Year, as his role with the Clippers could reinvigorate his career. Meanwhile, Franz Wagner’s 3-point shooting ability is crucial for the Orlando Magic, as they aim for a significant playoff run, potentially emerging from the Eastern Conference.
Predictively, players like Jalen Johnson, Chet Holmgren, and Jamal Murray may make their first All-Star appearances, reflecting their growing impact on competitive teams. However, the Phoenix Suns could struggle defensively again, potentially landing at the bottom of the rankings due to a lack of cohesive effort.
The San Antonio Spurs are projected to excel defensively, led by rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, while Anthony Edwards is favored to contend for the scoring title. Jalen Duren is set to showcase his growth and potentially walk away with the Most Improved Player award.
Amidst these predictions, the Milwaukee Bucks face challenges with their roster composition, with some experts suggesting they could miss the play-in tournament entirely, while speculation surrounds a potential trade involving star player Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Lastly, the article humorously concludes that Cooper Flagg is the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year, signifying the immense talent he brings to the league.
These bold predictions encapsulate the excitement and uncertainty that every NBA season holds, as teams work to carve their identities and players strive to reach new heights. The upcoming season promises to be thrilling, filled with potential storylines and surprises that could redefine conversations around the league.