Oklahoma City Thunder Predicted to Win NBA Finals

Oklahoma City Thunder Predicted to Win NBA Finals

Oklahoma City, OK — The Oklahoma City Thunder have emerged as frontrunners in the 2025-26 NBA season, according to the annual NBA general managers’ survey. A significant 80% of general managers believe the Thunder will clinch the championship title, solidifying their status as a team to watch in the competition.

Following the Thunder, the Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets received an equal share of 7% of the votes each for potential champions. Other teams, including the Houston Rockets and New York Knicks, garnered some support but fell short of being serious contenders in the eyes of the GMs.

Eastern Conference Projections

In the predictions for the Eastern Conference, the Cavaliers also captured the majority trust from the GMs, with 63% voting them to finish in the top spot. They were also placed in second (27%) and third (7%) positions, showing a strong consensus on their competitive potential in the upcoming season.

Western Conference Outlook

As for the Western Conference, the Thunder again distinguished themselves as favorites, with a remarkable 87% of GMs confident in their ability to secure the title.

Individual Player Insights

Among the individual player accolades, Anthony Edwards dominated the best two-guard category, receiving an impressive 70% of the votes, while Donovan Mitchell came in with 13%. Mitchell, who averaged 24 points per game last season and maintained an average of over 26 points throughout his first three years in Cleveland, continues to be a key player for the Cavaliers.

In the power forward rankings, Giannis Antetokounmpo topped the list with an overwhelming 93% support from the GMs, while teammate Evan Mobley received 7%. Mobley also ranked as the third-best defender overall, trailing behind Victor Wembanyama (80%) and Rudy Gobert (7%), and was recognized for his versatility on defense.

Coaching Recognition

In coaching assessments, Kenny Atkinson received accolades in multiple categories, finishing second for best offensive coach and earning a place among the top five for best in-game adjustments.

Offensive Efficiency and MVP Predictions

The Cavaliers were recognized for their efficiency on offense, receiving 40% of the votes for the most effective attack. Moreover, Nikola Jokic was hailed as the best passer and player with the highest basketball IQ, also receiving 67% of votes for the anticipated MVP.

Rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama was picked as the optimal player to initiate a franchise, receiving an outstanding 83% of the votes. Additionally, Amen Thompson gained 30% of the votes for the player expected to have a breakout season.

Offseason Highlights

As teams look ahead to the new season, the Atlanta Hawks were voted as having the best offseason, with 53% of GMs supporting this choice. The Houston Rockets followed them with 27%, and the Nuggets garnered 10%.

Upcoming Season Kickoff

The Cavaliers are set to launch their season against the New York Knicks on October 22nd at 7 p.m., a game that will be broadcast live on ESPN.