The Must-Watch NBA Teams of the 2025–2026 Season
Watch out for these NBA teams for the upcoming season.

The 2025-2026 NBA season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent history. With so much off-season momentum, it’s thrilling to try to figure out which team could wind up with the No. 1 seed in their conference.
We've assembled a quick guide on the top players, rising stars, and teams to keep your eyes on this NBA season.
Top Contenders for the 2025-26 NBA Season
Oklahoma City Thunder
The reigning NBA champions are preparing for another dominant season led by the returning young core of MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jaylen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. As one of the youngest rosters to ever win an NBA title, OKC’s reign looks like it has just begun.
Cleveland Cavaliers
After a disappointing second-round exit during the 2025 playoffs, elite shooting guard Donovan Mitchell and lockdown power forward Evan Mobley are in pursuit of a deeper playoff run this season. Their combination of offensive firepower and rim protection makes the Cavaliers a consistent leader in the Eastern Conference.
Houston Rockets
After acquiring perennial all-star power forward Kevin Durant during the offseason, the Rockets are poised to become one of the league’s most dangerous offenses. With Alperen Şengün, Jalen Green, and Amen Thompson developing into rising stars, this Rockets team is positioned to remain one of the top teams in the West.
Strong Challengers
Denver Nuggets
Led by two-time MVP Nikola Jokić, the Nuggets remain a serious threat in the West. Jokić’s elite playmaking combined with support from Christian Braun and Aaron Gordon ranks them near the top of the ultra-competitive Western Conference.
New York Knicks
The Knicks’ improved supporting cast maintains their status as serious challengers after a devastating loss to the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals. Although they’ve revamped their roster with promising offseason additions, point guard Jalen Brunson remains an essential team leader.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Built on grit and defense, Minnesota’s intensity is unmatched. Rudy Gobert anchors the paint while Anthony Edwards continues his ascent to superstardom. Look out for the Timberwolves to capitalize on their momentum from last year’s Western Conference Finals visit.
What to Look Out for This NBA Season
The Thunder, Cavaliers, and Rockets lead the pack, but if they don’t watch out, the Nuggets, Knicks, or Timberwolves could outshine them this season.
To find out who makes a run to the Finals and who falls behind, catch LIVE and exclusive games all season long from the NBA Tip-Off to the playoffs streaming on Peacock.
The NBA Tip-Off streams live on Peacock on Tuesday, Oct 21, starting at 7:30p ET.