Western Conference Power Rankings for 2025-26 NBA Season

The 2025-26 NBA season is shaping up to be another thrilling chapter in the Western Conference, with the Oklahoma City Thunder looking to defend their title. Here’s a breakdown of the teams and their chances to dethrone the champs.

Tier 1: The Unquestionable Favorite

Oklahoma City Thunder The Thunder are the reigning champions, having won the West by a record 16 games last season. With a deep and sustainable roster, they are poised to make history by becoming the first back-to-back champions since the Durant-era Warriors.

Tier 2: The Prime Contenders

Houston Rockets After trading for Kevin Durant and signing Dorian Finney-Smith, the Rockets have built a complete team with depth and star power. They are well-positioned to challenge the Thunder.

Denver Nuggets The Nuggets have reloaded with new additions like Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. With Nikola Jokic leading the way, they are a serious threat to the Thunder.

Minnesota Timberwolves Anthony Edwards' continued ascent is key for the Timberwolves. However, questions about their guard play and offseason moves leave them slightly behind the Rockets and Nuggets.

Tier 3: The Veteran Squads

LA Clippers With Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, the Clippers have the talent but face questions about their age and health.

Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James and Luka Doncic make the Lakers a contender, but their supporting cast needs to step up.

Golden State Warriors The Warriors remain a strong team, but their inactivity this offseason leaves them in a holding pattern.

Dallas Mavericks With Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving, the Mavericks have the talent but need their young stars to rise quickly.

Tier 4: The Rising Stars

Memphis Grizzlies The Grizzlies have depth and talent but need their young players to step up.

San Antonio Spurs With Victor Wembanyama and Dylan Harper, the Spurs have potential but are in a transition phase.

Portland Trail Blazers The Blazers have strengthened their defense but need more offensive firepower.

Tier 5: The Question Marks

Sacramento Kings The Kings have stars but lack the consistency to compete in the West.

Phoenix Suns The Suns' offseason moves have left more questions than answers.

New Orleans Pelicans The Pelicans have potential but face significant health and roster flux.

Utah Jazz The Jazz are in a rebuilding phase and may struggle to compete in the strong Western Conference.

As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the Western Conference promises to be as competitive as ever. Can any team rise to the challenge and dethrone the Oklahoma City Thunder? Only time will tell.