Week 1 Power Rankings: Thunder Dominate Start of 2025-26 Season
The Oklahoma City Thunder have emerged as the frontrunners for the 2025-26 NBA season, capitalizing on their strong performance last season. With a remarkable fourth-best point differential in league history, the Thunder retained their entire roster, highlighting their potential to end the NBA’s long-standing streak of non-repeating champions.
Thunder’s Preseason Performance and Predictions
In the latest NBA GM Survey, the Thunder received 80% of the votes, making them clear favorites for the upcoming title. This approval marks the fifth-highest percentage in the survey’s 24-year history. Despite their promising outlook, comparisons with last season’s champion, the Boston Celtics, serve as a cautionary tale, as the Celtics were unable to reach the conference finals following their championship run.
Key Preseason Statistics
- Thunder Preseason Record: 4-2
- Offensive Rating: 105.5 (26th in the league)
- Defensive Rating: 105.3 (7th in the league)
- Net Rating: +0.2 (14th in the league)
- Pace: 103.8 (14th in the league)
Despite the absence of Jalen Williams, who is recovering from wrist surgery, the Thunder’s roster showcases depth and talent. Key players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander demonstrated efficiency during the preseason, averaging 32.1 points and 10.1 assists per 36 minutes.
Other Key Teams in the Power Rankings
The Denver Nuggets followed closely behind the Thunder in the rankings, boasting a preseason record of 3-2. They rely heavily on Nikola Jokić, a perennial MVP candidate, while also addressing their ongoing roster improvements from previous seasons.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks also made their mark, both looking to capitalize on their unique rosters and past performances. The Cavaliers, with a 1-3 preseason record, are under pressure to meet high expectations following their playoff success last season.
Top Teams in Week 1
- #1: Oklahoma City Thunder
- #2: Denver Nuggets
- #3: Cleveland Cavaliers
- #4: New York Knicks
- #5: Minnesota Timberwolves
Game matchups this week feature the Thunder hosting the Houston Rockets on their championship banner night. As the new season begins, fans will be eager to see if the Thunder can live up to the hype and make a significant impact right out of the gate.
Conclusion
As the 2025-26 NBA season unfolds, the Oklahoma City Thunder lead the power rankings with high expectations. Their depth, coupled with the performance of their star players, could indeed signal a transformative year for the franchise.
