Oklahoma City’s title defense hinges on continuity and maturing leadership as they carry the weight of expectations. The core remains intact with virtually every contributor returning, save for a single draft-night departure, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to anchor a roster built for depth and sustainable high-level play. The challenge now is handling the target on their back and executing with uncommon maturity against a league determined to dethrone them.

Denver battles depth and defense, even after adding versatile veterans, with Aaron Gordon’s health and rim protection as the pivotal variable. Cleveland faces injury risk in a young, high-usage core, especially for Donovan Mitchell and wing depth. Houston leans into Durant’s gravity to elevate its scoring, while Orlando’s reshaped perimeter and 3-point limitations demand growth from its young core. The Lakers, Clippers and Wolves each confront frontcourt defense, lineup balance, and the temperature of a title chase as the 2025-26 season nears.

Across the league, the balance of proven stars and emerging talents will shape a crowded playoff field. The narrative centers on durability, depth, and the ability to translate regular-season momentum into late-season success. As teams push toward mid-June, the roadmap emphasizes sustainable health, smarter rotations, and the ability to adapt to every opponent’s counter-punches.