NBA Predictions for the 2025-26 Season: Thunder Dominance and Wembanyama’s Rise
The Athletic’s NBA staff has made their predictions for the 2025-26 season, and the consensus is that the Oklahoma City Thunder will continue their dominance. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren, the Thunder’s young core is expected to propel them to the top of the Western Conference.
Most Valuable Player Predictions
The staff is divided on who will win the MVP award, with some betting on Nikola Jokić to reassert his control over the definition of “valuable” in the NBA. Others believe Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will lead the Thunder to 65-plus wins and take home the award. Luka Doncic and Victor Wembanyama also have strong cases, with Wembanyama potentially starting a dynasty of his own.
- Top MVP Candidates:
- Nikola Jokić: The reigning MVP is expected to continue his dominance, with some staff members believing he’ll win his fourth MVP trophy.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Thunder’s star point guard is due for an MVP award, especially if he leads his team to 70 wins.
- Luka Doncic: The Mavericks’ superstar has the talent and motivation to take home the award.
- Victor Wembanyama: The young Spurs sensation has the potential to dominate the league and win multiple MVP awards.
Defensive Player of the Year
Victor Wembanyama is expected to start a nine-season streak of winning Defensive Player of the Year, and the staff believes he’s the man to beat for the award. Wembanyama’s incredible athleticism, defensive prowess, and potential to dominate the league make him a strong candidate.
Most Improved Player
The staff has several picks for Most Improved Player, including ¹:
- Amen Thompson: Expected to take his game to the next level with more on-ball opportunities.
- Deni Avdija: Believed to have made significant strides in his development and poised for a breakout season.
- Trae Young: Seen as a potential candidate after a strong offseason and with a weak Eastern Conference.
- LaMelo Ball: Predicted to have a career year and potentially lead his team to success.
- Chet Holmgren: Expected to continue his development and become an elite big man in the league.
Upcoming Games
The NBA season is just around the corner, with several exciting matchups scheduled for the next few days. Some of the top games include ² ³ ⁴:
- Oklahoma City Thunder vs Houston Rockets: Scheduled for October 21, 2025, at the Paycom Center.
- Golden State Warriors vs Los Angeles Lakers: Set to tip off on October 21, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena.
- Cleveland Cavaliers vs New York Knicks: Scheduled for October 23, 2025, at Madison Square Garden.
- Miami Heat vs Orlando Magic: Set to tip off on October 23, 2025, at the Kia Center.
The 2025-26 NBA season promises to be an exciting one, with talented young players and established stars vying for top honors. Will the Thunder continue their dominance, or will another team rise to the challenge? Only time will tell.
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