The 2025-26 NBA Eastern Conference race appears unpredictable due to numerous star injuries, but the Western Conference presents a different challenge.
The reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder, who dominated the West by a record 16 games last season, boast a sustainable roster primed for another title run.
However, several teams are gearing up to challenge their supremacy. Here are the top three contenders with the best shot at dethroning the Thunder.
Houston Rockets
They earned the No. 2 seed in the West with a tireless regular-season effort, but they lacked the star power to make a deep playoff run, resulting in a first-round exit against the Golden State Warriors.
However, after acquiring Kevin Durant and signing Dorian Finney-Smith, with young talents Amen Thompson, Tari Eason, and Reed Sheppard set to take on larger roles, Houston now has a well-rounded roster with depth and star power to rival the Thunder.
While Houston may not match OKC’s elite talent, their lack of glaring weaknesses makes them formidable. Expect the Rockets to secure a high seed again, this time with a playoff-ready edge, positioning them as a genuine threat.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets’ core remains anchored by Nikola Jokic, with Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon providing reliable support. Recent changes, including a new coach, revamped front office, and a bolstered bench with additions like Bruce Brown, Tim Hardaway Jr., and potentially Jonas Valanciunas (if he stays in the NBA), have revitalized the team.
Cameron Johnson, acquired this offseason, replaces Michael Porter Jr. as the starting lineup’s sharpshooter, adding versatility. Had it not been for Luguentz Dort’s unexpected 3-point barrage, Denver might have upset OKC in last season’s second round. With their reloaded roster, the Nuggets are primed for another shot at the Thunder in 2025-26.
Los Angeles Lakers
Any team featuring Luka Doncic or LeBron James, let alone both, is an instant contender. Yet, the Lakers face critical questions about their supporting cast’s ability to compete at the highest level. Can lineups with Doncic, James, and Austin Reaves hold up defensively?
Will new starting center DeAndre Ayton, signed after a buyout, reverse his recent decline and play with intensity? Can Jake LaRavia fill Dorian Finney-Smith’s role? Is there sufficient shooting on the roster?
The Lakers’ drama will persist until these concerns are resolved, but their star-driven potential makes them a dangerous wildcard in the race to challenge OKC.
