What's Happening?
NBA general managers have overwhelmingly selected the Oklahoma City Thunder as the favorites to win the NBA championship for the 2025-26 season. In the annual GM survey conducted by NBA.com, 80% of general managers predicted the Thunder would repeat as champions. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets tied for second place with 7% of the votes each. The survey also highlighted Nikola Jokic of the Nuggets, who received significant recognition for his skills, including being voted as the best center and international player. Additionally, Victor Wembanyama of the Spurs was favored as the best player to build a franchise around.
Why It's Important?
The survey results reflect the high expectations placed on the Oklahoma City Thunder and their potential impact on the upcoming NBA season. A repeat championship would solidify the Thunder's dominance in the league, potentially influencing team strategies and player trades. Nikola Jokic's recognition underscores his influence in the league, which could affect MVP discussions and team dynamics. The focus on emerging players like Amen Thompson and Victor Wembanyama highlights the league's evolving talent landscape, which could shape future team compositions and competitive strategies.
What's Next?
As the season progresses, teams will likely adjust their strategies based on the survey insights, focusing on countering the Thunder's strengths. The recognition of players like Jokic and Wembanyama may lead to increased media attention and pressure to perform. Teams identified as having made significant offseason moves, such as the Hawks and Magic, will be closely watched to see if these changes translate into improved performance. The Bucks' surprising offseason decisions could lead to further roster adjustments as they seek to optimize their lineup.
Beyond the Headlines
The survey results may influence fan engagement and expectations, particularly for teams like the Thunder and Nuggets. The emphasis on international players like Jokic and Wembanyama highlights the NBA's global reach and the increasing importance of international talent in shaping the league's future. The focus on young players suggests a shift towards developing versatile and athletic talent, which could impact training and development programs across the league.
