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NBA 2026-27 Predictions: Who Will Claim the Championship?

  • Kelly Iko: New York Knicks. Despite some off-court distractions, this team remains solid and balanced with no glaring weaknesses on the roster or coaching staff. Other Eastern teams like the Raptors, Pacers, Sixers, Celtics, Pistons, and Cavaliers each have significant questions to answer.
  • Dan Devine: New York Knicks. It's surprising, but the Knicks have earned more trust than any other Eastern contender. Even with their heavy workload over recent seasons and the rarity of repeat conference champs, their potential ceiling feels higher than that of rivals.
  • Tom Haberstroh: Philadelphia 76ers. The East is crowded with strong teams, but as long as LeBron James and Joel Embiid remain healthy, the Sixers stand out with four All-NBA players, a championship-winning coach, and underrated depth.
  • Steve Jones: New York Knicks. The Eastern Conference has tough competition with continuity from the Knicks, Cavs, and Pistons, plus moves by the Sixers, Heat, and Raptors. The Celtics are always present, and Tyrese Haliburton returns. Although curious about the Sixers' regular-season form, he sticks with the Knicks to build on last year's foundation.
  • Nekias Duncan: Boston Celtics. With just one player missing from their top playoff rotation, the defending champs show structural strength. Jayson Tatum, an MVP-level talent, leads a team that shoots well, rebounds, defends, and limits turnovers, making them a prime pick.

Western Conference Favorites

  • Nekias Duncan: Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite numerous injuries, the Thunder nearly hit 70 wins and pushed the Western Conference finals to seven games against a dominant opponent, even holding a late lead. Their talent, internal growth, coaching, and motivation set them apart.
  • Tom Haberstroh: San Antonio Spurs. Though Jalen Williams’ health helped OKC last May, Chet Holmgren’s quiet performance against Wembanyama leaves doubt. The Spurs continue rising and seem primed for success.
  • Steve Jones: San Antonio Spurs. After surprising everyone last season, the Spurs face increased scrutiny but appear driven by revenge and focus. He expects them to return to the Finals.
  • Dan Devine: Oklahoma City Thunder. Picks the Thunder to get revenge in a rematch with the Spurs in the Western Conference finals.
  • Kelly Iko: San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs have targeted their main rival and seem destined for a rematch with determination on their side.

NBA Championship Predictions

  • Dan Devine: Thunder over Knicks. New York will defend their title strongly but eventually tire, while Oklahoma City establishes itself as the league’s top team. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) joins an elite group of multiple regular-season and Finals MVP winners alongside legends like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Magic Johnson.
  • Nekias Duncan: Thunder over Celtics. A star-studded showdown between SGA and Jayson Tatum, coaching battles between Mark Daigneault and Joe Mazzulla, Paul George seeking revenge, plus contributions from Jalen Williams, Derrick White, Cason Wallace, Alex Caruso, and Hugo González make for an exciting clash. The Thunder are seen as the best team and favorites to win again.
  • Kelly Iko: Spurs over Knicks. The recent Finals offered thrilling moments, coaching, and star performances. This time, the Spurs, now with Tobias Harris and a fresh lineup, have the tools to challenge Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and OG Anunoby. He also predicts a key Knicks player might be traded by February.
  • Steve Jones: Spurs over Knicks. A rematch would be exciting, with the Knicks probing Spurs’ defensive rotations and San Antonio refining their offense to erase last year’s disappointment. He believes the Spurs will prevail.
  • Tom Haberstroh: Spurs over Sixers. Victor Wembanyama’s progression—from Rookie of the Year to All-Star to top MVP candidate—seems on track for a championship in his fourth year. Only Bob Pettit and Dave Cowens matched this path over 50 years ago; Wemby could be next.

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