NBA Western Conference rankings 1-15 entering 2026-27 season
sbnation.com • • sports
Key Points:
- For the first time in two decades, the Eastern Conference may be stronger than the Western Conference in the NBA, with the East showing a solid 1-10 ranking heading into the season, though the West's top six teams remain highly competitive.
- The San Antonio Spurs lead the Western Conference projections, anchored by superstar Victor Wembanyama and a strong supporting cast, expected to secure a top seed if healthy.
- Other Western contenders include the Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Houston Rockets, each with promising rosters and potential to challenge the Spurs.
- Teams like the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, and Portland Trail Blazers face uncertainties due to injuries, roster changes, or coaching adjustments, impacting their playoff prospects.
- Lower-ranked Western teams such as the New Orleans Pelicans, Los Angeles Clippers, and Sacramento Kings are dealing with health issues, roster instability, or rebuilding phases, making their seasons more challenging.
