The 2025-26 NBA season is set to begin, and the league is filled with questions, rivalries, and excitement. In the last season, it ended with the Oklahoma City Thunder winning their first championship, being led by their star player, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had a breakout performance. The question, though, in the 2025-26 season, is whether they can repeat — or if another contender will take over their leading spot.
Beginning with conferences, the western conference looks especially competitive. Oklahoma City and Denver are the favorites going into the season, with Nikola Jokic, the starting center and two-time MVP, dominating for the Nuggets.
On the other hand, the Los Angeles Lakers always remain a top contender in the league, powered by their star player, Lebron James. However, due to Lebron’s old age, this could bring their team down in the long run.
In the East, the New York Knicks are coming off an impressive run to the Conference Finals so it should be exciting to see if they could improve.
Moving on to specific players, Jokic, a center on the nuggets, is always in the MVP conversation, but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has a real chance to challenge him after leading OKC to a title. However, other players such as Luka Doncic, a shooting guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, continues to put up impressive stats, and Anthony Edwards of the Timberwolves could be ready to make a jump up to one of the league’s best.
Moving onto some league veterans, Lebron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo are still always players to keep a close eye on, even as young stars rise.
Rookies will play a significant role in the NBA this year. Cooper Flagg, the 6 foot 9, number one draft pick on the Mavericks, is expected to make an immediate impact. Additionally VJ Edgecombe, the third overall draft pick, will become important on the 76ers right away once the season starts.
Moving on to trades, this offseason saw several big trades that could cause changes in the standings. The headline move was Kevin Durant being traded to the Houston Rockets in a massive 7-team deal. Another big one: Michael Porter Jr. was traded from Denver to Brooklyn, while Cam Johnson went the other way. The Pelicans and Wizards also traded: New Orleans traded CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk, and a future second-round pick to Washington in exchange for Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey, and the Number 40 pick in the 2025 draft. Lastly, on July 7th, the Hawks added Kristaps Porzingis in a multi-team trade involving the Celtics and Nets.
Lastly, there are some injuries to watch that will play a major role this season. Giannis Antetokounmpo is coming off surgery, and Milwaukee’s title hopes depend on his recovery. Joel Embiid, the 76ers center, continues to have knee problems, which could affect how far the 76ers go.
The Clippers are once again dealing with questions about Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, while Zion Williamson’s health will determine how competitive the Pelicans can be this season. If these stars are not on the floor, the playoff bracket could look very different–but if not, it might open the door for new teams to rise.
The 2025-26 NBA season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in years. With new trades shifting the balance of power, stars returning from injury, and rookies eager to prove themselves, every team enters the year with a story to tell. Whether the Thunder defend their crown, or the Nuggets return to the top, or a surprise contender rises, fans can expect a season full of drama, highlights, and unforgettable moments.
