NBA Futures: Several Teams With a Real Shot In 26/27

The NBA season is set to tip off this week, and if the power rankings offer any indication, it’s that there are several truly stacked teams with a realistic chance of capturing a championship.

What stands out immediately, is how adamant some sports media outlets are, on the San Antonio Spurs continued rise to the top. This prediction appears to be trending due to just how well Viktor Wembanyama’s conditioning and overall skill has steadily climbed over the past season, and into this one. Just how high the 22-year-old superstar’s ceiling will be, is anyone’s guess. 

The league has never had a talent with his incredibly unique skillset. Wembanyama appears to be more muscular, and durable than he did after the long playoff run to the finals, where he was left at times, carrying the team, ultimately coughing up leads in pivotal finals games that led to the New York Knicks capturing the title. 

Can Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper take some of the heavy load off of Wemby’s back in 26/27? If so, the Spurs just might be an unstoppable force.

Here are three hypothetical Finals matchups that are fun to imagine, and could ultimately happen if the stars align.

1. Spurs vs. Boston Celtics

We realize that a Celtics team without Jaylen Brown immediately looks soft on paper, but Boston looked great in preseason, and is much stronger in the paint with the addition of Mitchell Robinson. The seven foot centre averaged 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game last season, including an impressive 4.2 offensive rebounds per contest. His 72.3 percent shooting from the field gives Boston another imposing presence around the basket.

With Jayson Tatum still capable of taking over a game offensively, the Celtics have enough firepower to make another serious championship run. Robinson's presence also gives Boston a legitimate defensive answer to the league's most dominant big men, although containing Wembanyama is another matter entirely.

The Spurs' only question, assuming Wemby stays healthy, is whether or not Castle and Harper, age 21 and 20, are ready to seal the deal and block out any outside noise. They justifiably looked bothered by the Knicks and their relentless stamina, coupled with a violent crowd. A clash with Boston should be slightly more subdued.

2. Philadelphia 76ers vs. OKC Thunder

With Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and LeBron James sharing the floor, Philadelphia has assembled an extraordinary collection of offensive talent, provided everyone can stay healthy and accept their respective roles.

Oklahoma City, meanwhile, has the benefit of continuity, with SGA and Chet Holmgren leading a young, athletic roster that has already demonstrated it can compete with the league's best.

3. Knicks vs. Houston Rockets

The defending champion Knicks have retained their championship core, with Jalen Brunson leading a relentless group that has clearly shown its ability to erase seemingly insurmountable deficits.

Houston, meanwhile, has the defensive athleticism and physicality to make life miserable for New York, with Kevin Durant providing the kind of veteran scoring presence that can turn a tightly contested Finals game on its head.

Honorable Mentions: Toronto Raptors and Denver Nuggets

Honorable mention goes to the Toronto Raptors and Denver Nuggets, each with an ultimate weapon who can take over the league at any stage of the season.

Kawhi Leonard's return to Toronto immediately makes the Raptors a dangerous opponent. When healthy, he remains one of the game's most efficient two way players, with the experience and composure to dominate a playoff series. Toronto fans certainly don't need reminding of what a healthy Kawhi can accomplish in the postseason.

Nikola Jokic, meanwhile, remains arguably the most complete offensive player in basketball. His ability to score, rebound and distribute the ball makes Denver a threat regardless of where the Nuggets finish in the Western Conference standings. Counting out a team led by Jokic is never a good call.

The Cover Picks

The San Antonio Spurs to win the 2026/27 NBA Championship at +280, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

The Spurs will capture the title in seven games. Wemby's time is now!