Thunder Open Season as Western Conference Benchmark; Rockets and Nuggets Bolster Rosters
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Oklahoma City, OK — The Oklahoma City Thunder will begin the upcoming NBA season as the clear favorite in the Western Conference, according to the latest projections released by ESPN.
Fresh off becoming the league’s youngest champions in nearly five decades, the Thunder return their entire rotation. Reigning MVP and Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, 27, anchors a roster that also includes newly extended rising stars Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren. Oklahoma City finished one victory shy of 70 last year and is expected to contend for a similar win total again.
Houston Adds Durant After Surprise No. 2 Finish
The Houston Rockets, who unexpectedly claimed the West’s second seed before a first-round exit, moved quickly to address late-game scoring by acquiring Kevin Durant. Houston’s front office completed the deal without sacrificing its young core, positioning the team to remain near the top of the standings over the long term.
Denver Targets Depth Around Jokic
Seeking additional support for three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets traded Michael Porter Jr. and a 2032 first-round pick to Brooklyn for Cameron Johnson. The move follows Denver’s playoff loss to Oklahoma City, in which the Nuggets were outmuscled in the later rounds.
Lakers Continue Two-Star Era
The Los Angeles Lakers remain a headline attraction with veteran LeBron James sharing the spotlight with franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic. Team chemistry and postseason resilience are expected to be key questions as Los Angeles navigates a crowded conference race.
Projected Western Conference Standings (ESPN)
1. Thunder — 64-18
2. Rockets — 54-28
3. Nuggets — 53-29
4. Timberwolves — 51-31
5. Clippers — 50-32
6. Lakers — 50-32
With Oklahoma City favored, Houston’s bold acquisition, Denver’s roster adjustment, and the Lakers’ star power set the stage for a highly competitive Western Conference campaign.
Source: Hoops Wire
