Yahoo ranks top NBA championship contenders for 2026-27 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 2:13 PM
Last updated Jun 19, 2026
Yahoo Sports has released its early power rankings for the 2026-27 NBA season, focusing on championship contenders. The New York Knicks, fresh off their 2025-26 championship, are listed but not placed first. Eleven teams are identified as potential contenders, with varying degrees of optimism based on their recent performances and player statuses. Notable entries include the Houston Rockets and Indiana Pacers, both of whom could improve with returning players next season. The rankings aim to predict which team is most likely to win the NBA title based on current rosters and performance trends.
- •New York Knicks won the 2025-26 NBA championship.
- •Houston Rockets experienced serious injuries but managed 52 wins.
- •Indiana Pacers hope for a healthy Tyrese Haliburton to enhance competitiveness.
- •Detroit Pistons had a strong regular season but were eliminated early in playoffs.
- •Cleveland Cavaliers reached the Eastern Conference finals but were swept.
- 2:13 PMYahoo Sports — Early 2026-27 NBA Power Rankings: Contenders only edition
"We attempt to put the top contenders in order from least to most likely to win the 2027 NBA championship. Are the Knicks No. 1?
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