League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

NBA season preview highlights Thunder, Nuggets, Timberwolves, Trail Blazers, Jazz

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 6, 2026, 8:59 PM

Last updated Oct 6, 2026

NBA season preview highlights Thunder, Nuggets, Timberwolves, Trail Blazers, Jazz

Summary

The NBA's 2026-27 season is set to begin on October 20. The Northwest Division teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Portland Trail Blazers, and Utah Jazz, are being assessed for strengths and concerns. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is noted as a key player for the Thunder, with questions surrounding team depth in creating offense beyond him. Defensive lineups look promising with a focus on players like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. As teams prepare for the upcoming campaign, each will aim to secure their position in the standings throughout the season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•NBA regular season starts on October 20, 2026.
•Oklahoma City Thunder's key player is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
•Concerns for the Thunder include offensive depth beyond Gilgeous-Alexander.
•Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams highlight the Thunder's defensive capabilities.
•Assessments include potential team standings and player impact.

Latest Updates

8:59 PMYahoo Sports — 2026-27 NBA Season Preview: Thunder, Nuggets, Timberwolves, Trail Blazers, Jazz (Northwest Division)

What they're saying

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Let's break down what to like and be concerned about, a lineup to watch and a reasonable range for each team to finish in the standings.
— Yahoo Sportsby Nekias Duncan

Related Teams & Leagues

Denver Nuggets Minnesota Timberwolves Oklahoma City Thunder Portland Trail Blazers NBA Basketball