NBA Power Rankings Preview 2026-27 Season as Training Camps Begin

Training camps have opened across the NBA as analysts release their power rankings for the 2026-27 season. The rankings consider team and player statistics, last season's results, projected championship chances and a degree of subjectivity.

The Los Angeles Clippers face a challenging year after the league imposed penalties for a salary-cap violation and completed the Kawhi Leonard trade. An injury to Brandon Ingram, who will miss the season start with a partially torn Achilles, further dampens expectations.

The Sacramento Kings' offseason was dominated by the return of Ben Simmons, who missed all of last season and posted modest numbers in his previous three campaigns. The team must determine how to add value around Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine.

The Milwaukee Bucks are expected to be competitive if players such as Ryan Rollins, Tyler Herro and Jaime Jaquez stay healthy, though depth remains a concern.

Brooklyn's roster depth is limited, but the acquisition of Julius Randle gives the Nets a solid starting five. Development of rookie Egor Dëmin, who averaged 11.9 points and 3.2 assists in his recent games, could be pivotal.

Chicago hopes the forward duo of Matas Buzelis and rookie Caleb Wilson will provide a new direction, though a playoff berth is not guaranteed.

Memphis relies on youthful energy, with players like Cameron Boozer, Cedric Coward, Zach Edey and Jaylen Wells expected to improve on last season's win total.

New Orleans continues to count on Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III and Dejounte Murray, but concerns about shooting depth and Williamson's durability persist.

Golden State's Stephen Curry expressed frustration at the possibility of missing the playoffs after a season marked by injuries to Moses Moody, Jimmy Butler and Kristaps Porziņģis. Curry recently signed a contract extension.

The Utah Jazz, after adding Jaren Jackson Jr. and drafting Darryn Peterson, aim to transition from rebuilding to playoff contention with a starting five that includes Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George and likely Jusuf Nurkić.

Phoenix traded Royce O'Neale and Grayson Allen for Miles Bridges, betting that Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks can sustain the team's recent success.

Detroit's recent win-total surge may be mirrored by Washington, which hopes to improve with a healthy Trae Young and Anthony Davis, while rookie AJ Dybantsa is expected to contribute immediately.

Dallas targets a top-six Western Conference finish with Kyrie Irving returning, Cooper Flagg entering his second year and veteran support from P.J. Washington.

Portland, after a breakout season, is considering a trade for Ja Morant to boost scoring, complementing Shaedon Sharpe and Damian Lillard.

Charlotte traded LaMelo Ball and looks to rely on Kon Knueppel, Brandon Miller and Coby White, pending Knueppel's recovery from a hamstring injury.

Indiana's return of Tyrese Haliburton restores a strong starting lineup, supported by TJ McConnell, Kelly Oubre and Obi Toppin.

Orlando faces a make-or-break season as Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner have yet to develop consistent chemistry.

Atlanta's roster features length and athleticism with Jalen Johnson, Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, bolstered by recent acquisitions from Oklahoma City.

Detroit retains its core after Jalen Duren signed a five-year extension, though further roster upgrades may be needed to remain competitive.

Los Angeles Lakers depend on improved defense under coach JJ Redick, with Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler leading the offense.

Toronto adds Kawhi Leonard, joining Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles, creating a strong defensive core.

Philadelphia, with Kevin Durant, Joel Embiid and a healthy Anthony Davis, aims to leverage depth for a championship run.

Boston replaces Jayson Tatum with Jaylen Brown and adds Paul George, maintaining a strong supporting cast.

New York Knicks retain their championship-winning core, with Jalen Brunson expected to continue his rise.

Oklahoma City Thunder lost depth to stay under the salary apron but hope improvements from Jalen Williams and young players will offset the losses.

San Antonio builds on its recent Finals appearance with Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper still developing toward their peaks.