NBA Western Conference rankings 1-15 entering 2026-27 season
Is Western Conference superiority over in the NBA? For the first time in two decades, there’s an argument to be made that the Eastern Conference is stronger 1-10 heading into the season. The bottom end of the West playoff picture feels a little softer than normal, but that shouldn’t detract from the fact that the […]
1. San Antonio Spurs: This team will be well positioned to be one of the best in the league for the next decade with their superstar Victor Wembanyama, who is by far the best defensive player and has strong offensive abilities. The team's role players are also impressive, led by Julian Champagnie, Devin Vassell, and the newly signed Tobias Harris. With Wembanyama staying healthy, this team is expected to finish as the No. 2 seed.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder: The Thunder could potentially go back-to-back if Jalen Williams and Ajay Mitchell recover from injuries in time. The team relies heavily on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's on-ball creation and elite defense, with the addition of Chet Holmgren potentially making them even stronger. They could finish as high as the No. 3 seed.
3. Los Angeles Lakers: Despite losing LeBron James, this team has upgraded its rim protection with Walker Kessler. Luka Doncic remains one of the five best players in the league, and the Lakers' defense should be an improvement. The forward room may not be the strongest, but with Luka Doncic, a good coach, and better rim protection, this team has a strong floor and ceiling.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves: The Wolves have a significant degree of pull-up shooting from Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball, which could add variance in matchups against the Spurs or Thunder. With Rudy Gobert staying healthy and effective, and the addition of Jaden McDaniels, this team has the potential to become a playoff contender. Jonathan Kuminga's addition could further improve the team, and the bench should be solid.
5. Houston Rockets: The Rockets missed Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams last season, but returning both players should strengthen the team. With young players like Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., and Reed Sheppard, Houston could be a threat for the No. 3 seed. Kevin Durant, still in good form, adds to the team's talent.
6. Denver Nuggets: Despite a challenging offseason, the Nuggets' core remains solid with Nikola Jokic, who is still considered one of the best players in the league. The team should have a strong foundation moving forward.
Written by urgent.news from SB Nation's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
