The latest NBA power rankings have sent shockwaves through the league and across fanbases, with a dramatic reshuffling that places youth and chemistry above legacy and names. Sitting atop this new order are four teams that, just a few seasons ago, might not have been taken seriously as legitimate contenders. But the 2025 offseason and Summer League performances, combined with front-office vision and individual player growth, have flipped that narrative. Leading the charge is the Oklahoma City Thunder, a team now firmly recognized as the blueprint for building a sustainable and dangerous roster in the modern NBA.
The Thunder’s climb to the top of the rankings has been far from accidental. It has been deliberate, patient, and masterfully executed. Under General Manager Sam Presti, the franchise committed to a complete rebuild years ago, trading away star veterans and stockpiling draft picks with surgical precision. Many questioned the approach when the team let go of players like Russell Westbrook and Paul George, but few are questioning it now. Oklahoma City’s ascension is fueled by a deep, balanced roster headlined by the extraordinary talent of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. SGA has transformed into a full-blown superstar, averaging over 30 points per game last season while shouldering the offensive load with grace and consistency. But the Thunder are not a one-man show. The emergence of Chet Holmgren as a two-way unicorn has given them a game-changing presence in the paint, both as a rim protector and a stretch big who can space the floor. His unique skill set has allowed the Thunder to switch defensively with confidence and terrorize opponents with length and mobility.
Josh Giddey’s evolution into a premier point-forward has added another layer of unpredictability. His size, court vision, and feel for the game allow him to manipulate defenses and keep the offense flowing smoothly even when SGA is off the floor. But perhaps what makes the Thunder most dangerous is their depth and cohesion. They have an ensemble cast of capable players—Jalen Williams, Luguentz Dort, Isaiah Joe, and others—who buy into the system, play with urgency, and embrace their roles. Mark Daigneault deserves immense credit for fostering a culture of accountability, development, and relentless energy. The Thunder defend like their lives depend on it, move the ball unselfishly, and play every possession with the kind of grit that championship teams need.
What truly sets them apart right now, however, is that they have youth and experience, upside and results. They pushed deep into the playoffs last season and looked every bit as poised as teams that have been there for years. Their success isn’t theoretical—it’s real, and it’s growing. As they enter the 2025-2026 season, Oklahoma City isn’t just a fun team on the rise. They’re the best team in basketball right now, with the clearest path toward sustained greatness. The Thunder sit at No. 1 not because of a hot streak, but because they’re the most complete, balanced, and formidable unit in the NBA today.
Just behind them, at No. 2, are the New York Knicks—yes, the New York Knicks. For decades a franchise that represented chaos, dysfunction, and heartbreak, the Knicks have undergone a remarkable transformation under Leon Rose and head coach Tom Thibodeau. The face of the franchise, Jalen Brunson, has officially shed the label of overpaid role player and proven himself to be a legitimate All-NBA guard. Last season, he carried New York with toughness, shot-making, and a leadership style that resonates in the locker room. Brunson’s rise is symbolic of the new Knicks identity: tough, resilient, and no-nonsense.
Around him, the Knicks have assembled a roster that fits like a glove. Julius Randle, when healthy, remains a matchup nightmare for most defenses. He’s an inside-out scorer who can rebound and facilitate, and his chemistry with Brunson has steadily improved. RJ Barrett has embraced his role as a two-way wing, and the additions of Donte DiVincenzo and OG Anunoby last season brought a new level of defensive tenacity and perimeter shooting. But what’s most encouraging for Knicks fans is the team’s ability to adapt and evolve. Under Thibodeau, they’ve historically leaned into heavy isolation and half-court grind-it-out basketball. But this season, they’ve opened things up, moved the ball more freely, and found ways to score efficiently even when their primary stars aren’t clicking.
Their defensive identity remains elite. Anunoby’s impact has been profound, making life miserable for opposing wings and giving the Knicks a legitimate stopper in crunch time. Mitchell Robinson, when healthy, controls the glass and anchors the paint with verticality and shot-blocking. New York may not have the explosive offensive ceiling of some Western teams, but they know who they are, they execute their game plan with precision, and they’ve proven they can win ugly or pretty. That versatility has allowed them to rise to No. 2 in the power rankings—a testament to both their strategic growth and their collective will.
At No. 3, the Cleveland Cavaliers are back in the spotlight, and this time, it feels sustainable. Donovan Mitchell’s decision to re-sign in the offseason sent a powerful message: he believes in the project. And why wouldn’t he? Cleveland has put together one of the most balanced starting lineups in the league, with players who complement one another’s strengths. Mitchell, a proven scorer and playoff performer, is the engine. But it’s the supporting cast that gives this team its true identity. Darius Garland, despite battling injuries last year, remains one of the league’s most efficient offensive point guards. His chemistry with Mitchell continues to evolve, and when the two are clicking, they present a dual-threat backcourt that’s extremely hard to contain.
The frontcourt of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen is the heart of Cleveland’s defense. Mobley, in particular, is taking the leap many expected—his offensive polish is catching up with his defensive brilliance. He’s shooting with more confidence, creating off the dribble, and asserting himself as a go-to option in key moments. Allen, meanwhile, is the reliable anchor—rim-running, shot-blocking, and setting bone-crushing screens. The Cavs have also addressed their wing depth issues, bringing in veterans who can shoot, defend, and stay ready when the moment calls. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff has leaned into small tweaks—pushing the pace more often, experimenting with different lineups, and encouraging more ball movement.
Cleveland’s current position at No. 3 isn’t just based on talent—it’s about maturity. This team has gone through its growing pains and come out stronger. They’ve had playoff disappointments, chemistry questions, and injury setbacks. But they’ve addressed their holes, doubled down on their strengths, and now look like a group that’s ready to contend for the Eastern Conference crown. If Mitchell continues to perform at an MVP-adjacent level, and Mobley keeps ascending, Cleveland will be a nightmare matchup for any team in the league come spring.
Sliding into the fourth spot are the Minnesota Timberwolves, a team that once seemed doomed to be stuck in NBA purgatory but has recently found its identity in emphatic fashion. Much of that resurgence can be attributed to the incredible rise of Anthony Edwards. Simply put, Edwards is no longer a young prospect. He is the guy—a future face-of-the-league caliber talent who has taken ownership of the Timberwolves and made them relevant again. His blend of explosiveness, shot-making, defense, and charisma has electrified not only the fanbase but the entire league.
