Oddsmakers enter the 2026-27 season with a clear favorite, but the gap at the top is thinner than it looks.
In Yahoo Sports’ Vegas-based NBA power rankings, the Oklahoma City Thunder sit first with a +8.1 rating, just ahead of Victor Wembanyama’s San Antonio Spurs at +7.4. The Boston Celtics, Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks round out the top five.
The ratings blend win totals, title odds, injury news and early game lines, with home court valued at three points. The Sacramento Kings rank last at -7.5, behind the Milwaukee Bucks and Brooklyn Nets.
Rockets, Jazz and Mavericks Could Climb
Houston Rockets: Before Steven Adams got hurt last season, Houston ranked second in market rating and led the league in rebounding and three-point shooting. With Adams and Fred VanVleet back and Marcus Smart added, the Rockets look well placed to clear 47.5 wins.
Utah Jazz: Utah has drawn heavy interest to top 36.5 wins. A deep young core and coach Will Hardy make the Jazz a strong candidate for the biggest jump.
Dallas Mavericks: Dallas is the hardest team to read, with new coach Dusty May, a returning Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg’s development all in play. A healthy roster could push them into the play-in.
Why Denver, Portland and Brooklyn May Slide
Denver Nuggets: Nikola Jokic carries a heavier load than any player in the league, and his efficiency faded late last season. Aging teammates and thinner depth add to the risk.
Portland Trail Blazers: New rules on illegal screens and push-offs could hurt a team that thrived on ball pressure and free throws. Damian Lillard and Ja Morant may not fit that style under first-year coach Micah Nori.
Brooklyn Nets: The Nets may have a real incentive to sink, as draft pick obligations tied to Houston could make a bottom three finish the safer outcome. Trades involving Michael Porter Jr. or Julius Randle are possible.
With opening night approaching, these NBA power rankings offer a useful starting point, but early form will reshape them quickly.
