Every October, the NBA feels like it hits the reset button. Summer trades, the draft, bold predictions, and off-court drama all wipe the slate clean, making way for new storylines to unfold. The 2025/26 season promises to be unlike any other — with seismic roster changes and an unpredictable balance of power reshaping the league. Who are the top contenders now? Find out in the 1xBet preview.
East: New heroes and great expectations
Perhaps the clearest example of change is Boston’s dramatic rebuild. After Jayson Tatum suffered a serious injury in the conference semifinals, the team’s new owners decided not to pay record-breaking luxury taxes for an aging core. With Porziņģis, Holiday, and Horford gone — and Derrick White possibly next — the Celtics have signaled a full reset.
That shake-up has opened the door for several Eastern Conference teams to chase the crown. The New York Knicks made waves by parting ways with Tom Thibodeau, a move that symbolized their shift toward a more modern, offense-driven approach. With Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby leading the charge under new coach Mike Brown, New York now looks like a genuine title threat — if Brown can handle the immense pressure of Madison Square Garden.
Orlando, meanwhile, made one of the boldest offseason moves by acquiring Desmond Bane. His elite shooting, paired with Paolo Banchero’s creativity and Franz Wagner’s versatility, gives the Magic the kind of offensive balance that could make them this year’s surprise Eastern Finals contender.
Milwaukee remains in the mix as well. If Giannis Antetokounmpo continues his dominant form from EuroBasket, the Bucks should comfortably secure a playoff berth. However, much of their success will depend on how quickly new center Myles Turner adjusts to the team’s system.
Then there’s Atlanta — the ultimate wild card. The addition of Kristaps Porziņģis and Luke Kennard alongside Trae Young gives the Hawks new firepower. If rookie Zaccharie Risacher develops as expected, Atlanta could become a legitimate threat to the conference’s elite.
West: Clash of titans
The Western Conference remains a theater of ambition, ego, and elite talent — and this season will be no different. Houston made the biggest headline by prying Kevin Durant away from Phoenix. His arrival instantly turns the Rockets into contenders, but there are question marks: Can KD stay healthy, and can Houston’s young stars adapt to his game?
Denver continues to trust in the system built around Nikola Jokić — a one-man offensive engine who keeps the Nuggets relevant every season. The addition of Jonas Valančiūnas as a backup big should give Denver much-needed depth, ensuring the MVP-caliber center gets proper rest without the team losing momentum.
Over in Los Angeles, the Lakers have somehow defied expectations yet again. With LeBron James and Luka Dončić sharing the floor, the franchise blends two eras of superstardom. Dončić, having trimmed down and impressed at EuroBasket, appears poised to take the mantle, while LeBron enters a reflective phase — perhaps his last run at a title.
Then there’s Oklahoma City — the defending champions and current favorites. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander looks unstoppable, and with extensions signed by Jalen and Jaylin Williams plus Chet Holmgren’s growth, the Thunder’s young core has dynasty potential written all over it.
As for the Western dark horse? Don’t sleep on Dallas. The arrival of Cooper Flagg injects new energy into the squad, which still features Anthony Davis. If Kyrie Irving returns in 2026 with his signature flair and focus, Jason Kidd could find himself coaching a team strong enough to reach the conference finals.
But then again — logic and the NBA rarely coexist. Two seasons ago, Dallas was ridiculed for trading Luka Dončić. Today, that same move is hailed as the catalyst for Cooper Flagg’s rise. Just last year, Indiana reached the NBA Finals; now, Tyrese Haliburton’s injury could push them out of playoff contention.
That’s the magic of basketball’s most unpredictable league. In the NBA, everything can change in a week — and that’s exactly why millions around the world can’t stop watching.