NBA power rankings 2026-27: Championship Tiers, with Knicks, Spurs Thunder in top three spots

Kurt Helin released the NBC Sports preseason NBA Power Rankings for the 2026-27 season, organizing teams into tiered championship categories. The New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, and Oklahoma City Thunder earned the top three spots as primary Title Contenders. Helin highlights New York returning 10 of its top 12 rotation players following an NBA championship run, while San Antonio and Oklahoma City feature potent rosters expected to dominate the Western Conference.

Helin also evaluated several other contenders across the league, placing the Philadelphia 76ers and Cleveland Cavaliers among the secondary tier. The analysis factors in preseason performances and offseason roster adjustments, noting high expectations for the Houston Rockets, Indiana Pacers, and Los Angeles Lakers, while evaluating potential challenges for aging rosters and evolving rotations.