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Although the 2026-27 NBA season is still ahead, conversations about the championship picture have already begun. Last season’s results, offseason roster moves, and the continued development of young stars have helped identify several teams that appear well positioned to compete for the Larry O’Brien Trophy. Much can change over the course of a long season, but some franchises already possess the talent, depth, and continuity needed to separate themselves from the rest of the league. Here are three teams that have become part of the early championship conversation.
1. San Antonio Spurs Have Become Legitimate Championship Favorites
San Antonio’s rapid rise has transformed the Spurs from an exciting young team into one of the NBA’s most complete contenders. A 62-win season and a trip to the Western Conference Finals demonstrated how quickly the franchise has developed around Victor Wembanyama. Wemby continues to influence games on both ends of the floor. His ability to protect the rim, stretch the floor offensively, and impact nearly every possession makes him one of the league’s most valuable players despite his relative youth. The Spurs have also surrounded their young star with a balanced supporting cast that complements his skill set. Strong team defense, efficient offense, and contributions across the roster give San Antonio several ways to remain competitive. Perhaps most importantly, the roster still has room to improve. With many key contributors continuing to develop together, the Spurs enter the new season looking capable of taking another step toward an NBA championship.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder Remain Built for Long-Term Success
After another outstanding regular season that produced 64 victories, Oklahoma City has shown that its success is no longer a surprise. The Thunder combine elite talent with a deep roster built around several young core players, creating a foundation that should position them among the Western Conference’s best. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains the centerpiece of everything Oklahoma City does. His scoring efficiency, leadership, and ability to control games continue making him one of the NBA’s premier players and a difficult matchup for any opponent. Depth is another major advantage. The Thunder can rely on multiple players to contribute offensively while maintaining defensive intensity throughout the game, allowing them to withstand injuries and navigate the demands of a long regular season. With another year of experience under their belt as a cohesive unit, Oklahoma City enters the season with realistic championship ambitions. Continuity remains one of the team’s greatest strengths as it looks to build on recent success.
3. New York Knicks Enter With Championship Expectations
Winning the championship has naturally changed how the Knicks are viewed entering the 2026-27 season. Instead of chasing contenders, New York now begins the year as one of the teams every opponent wants to beat, with a roster that has already proven it can succeed throughout the playoffs. Jalen Brunson remains the leader of a group built on experience, chemistry, and defensive toughness. Keeping the core together gives the Knicks continuity that many challengers are still trying to develop, strengthening their case as one of the league’s leading contenders.
Those expectations extend beyond media predictions. Fans comparing odds to win 2027 NBA Finals will notice that New York continues to be grouped with the league’s strongest championship candidates, reflecting both its proven postseason success and the quality of its returning roster. Repeating is never easy in the NBA, but championship experience provides a valuable advantage. If the Knicks maintain the consistency that carried them through last season, they will have every opportunity to remain at the center of the title conversation.
Looking Ahead to the 2026-27 NBA Season
San Antonio, Oklahoma City, and New York have each earned their place among the early favorites through a combination of elite talent, roster construction, and recent success. While every season brings unexpected developments, these franchises appear well positioned to remain at the center of the championship conversation. As the regular season unfolds, performances on the court will ultimately determine whether these expectations hold true. Following how each contender develops throughout the year will provide a clearer picture of which team is best prepared to compete for the 2027 NBA Finals title.