The dust has settled on the 2025 NBA offseason, and with training camps just around the corner, it’s time for our annual tradition — The Hoop Doctors’ NBA Power Rankings. From blockbuster trades to surprising draft picks and breakout playoff performances, every team’s outlook has shifted since the final buzzer of last season. Some franchises are chasing titles, while others are hitting the reset button and betting on youth and development. Check out the 2025–26 NBA Power Rankings and let us know your predictions for next year!
At the top, the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder look poised to defend their title with a roster that’s somehow even deeper and more dangerous than last year. The Pacers are a huge question mark with the achilles injury to Haliburton. Meanwhile, contenders like the Rockets, Cavaliers, and Knicks have all retooled and climbed up the ranks. But don’t count out battle-tested squads like the Warriors and Lakers just yet — experience still matters in the playoff gauntlet.
Down the ladder, rebuilding teams like the Spurs, Pistons, and Jazz are putting their young cores to the test, hoping to lay the foundation for future success. This year’s race promises to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory, and we’re here for all of it.
Let’s dive into our 2025–26 NBA Power Rankings — starting with the champs.
1
Oklahoma City Thunder
The reigning champions return with a deep, young core led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. After dominating last season, they’re poised for another run with continuity and hunger.
2
Houston Rockets
The addition of Kevin Durant adds instant championship pedigree. Combined with their young talent and solid coaching, Houston is no longer just a rebuilding team.
3
Cleveland Cavaliers
A 60+ win season and a maturing core built around Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley has Cleveland primed to take the next step.
4
Golden State Warriors
Steph Curry continues to defy age, and with solid veteran pieces around him, the Warriors remain contenders if they stay healthy.
5
New York Knicks
Jalen Brunson’s leadership and a gritty supporting cast make New York a dangerous playoff threat. They’re one star away from greatness.
6
Los Angeles Lakers
Adding Luka Doncic gives LeBron a true co-star. With Luka getting in shape, and if their role players step up, this team could go all the way.
7
Indiana Pacers
Tyrese Haliburton’s injury slowed them last season, but a healthy return and strong depth keep Indiana firmly in the upper tier.
8
Boston Celtics
They still boast one of the best rosters in the league, but durability and depth remain their biggest obstacles.
9
Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards’ rise gives Minnesota new life. If their big men stay focused, they’re a dark horse in the West.
10
Denver Nuggets
The defending champs slipped slightly but remain dangerous with Jokic leading the way and their system intact.
11
Orlando Magic
Youthful energy, athleticism, and an emerging star in Paolo Banchero have Orlando looking like a future powerhouse.
12
Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid is dominant when healthy, but playoff inconsistencies and aging stars create question marks.
13
Sacramento Kings
Fox and Sabonis are one of the league’s best duos, but playoff experience and consistency still need work.
14
Dallas Mavericks
Luka is gone, Davis is not often in the lineup, but the supporting cast has to prove it can deliver when it counts.
15
Miami Heat
Miami always plays above expectations, but their roster may be aging out of contention.
16
Toronto Raptors
Developing young wings and solid defense keep them competitive, but star power is lacking.
17
Chicago Bulls
A mix of veterans and youth keeps Chicago relevant, but they need to define their long-term identity.
18
Atlanta Hawks
Trae Young is electric, but team defense and depth continue to limit their ceiling.
19
Washington Wizards
A promising group of young players is emerging, but they’re still a few years from playoff relevance.
20
Charlotte Hornets
LaMelo Ball can light it up, but health and consistency remain major concerns.
21
Brooklyn Nets
Rebuilding with youth and looking for an identity post-superstar era.
22
Portland Trail Blazers
Without Lillard, the Blazers are in full rebuild mode, hoping young players develop quickly.
23
New Orleans Pelicans
Zion’s health is the ultimate wildcard. When he plays, they’re competitive.
24
Memphis Grizzlies
Still scrappy and defensive-minded, but lack the offensive punch to break through.
25
Detroit Pistons
Cade Cunningham is maturing into a star, and the team is showing signs of life after years in the cellar.
26
Utah Jazz
Utah has embraced a rebuild and will focus on development this year.
27
San Antonio Spurs
Victor Wembanyama is must-watch, but the Spurs are still building the pieces around him.
28
Los Angeles Clippers
Kawhi and PG can’t stay healthy, and the window appears to be closing.
29
Phoenix Suns
Lack of depth and internal turmoil drop Phoenix near the bottom after a disappointing year.
30
Milwaukee Bucks
With the possible departure of Giannis and a thinning roster, Milwaukee enters a rebuilding phase. If he stays they will quickly move up these rankings, but they still won’t be as good as they were two years ago.
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