Bold NBA 2025-26 Season Predictions: New Champion, Fresh Faces in MVP Race and More
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, analysts are offering predictions ranging from team success to individual accolades. Here’s a look at some of the most intriguing forecasts for the upcoming year, based on recent reporting and observations.
Portland Trail Blazers: Yang Hansen’s Impact
Rookie Yang Hansen, the 7-foot-1 center drafted 16th overall by the Blazers from China, is expected to make an immediate impact. Despite initial skepticism surrounding the pick, Hansen’s unique skillset – combining deft passing, long-range shooting, and agile footwork – has already impressed coach Chauncey Billups, who has declared him a rotation player. While not projected to outperform top pick Cooper Flagg, Hansen is anticipated to be a captivating and effective contributor. As Jason Fast notes, “He will impress – and entertain.”
Sacramento Kings: Russell Westbrook‘s Potential
The Sacramento Kings’ acquisition of Russell Westbrook presents a potentially positive scenario. Analyst Sam Amick suggests that Westbrook could thrive in a non-contending environment, raising the floor for a team with limited ceiling. This differs significantly from his recent stints with high-expectation teams like the Lakers, Clippers, and Nuggets. The success of Westbrook could also impact the starting point guard position currently held by veteran Dennis Schröder.
San Antonio Spurs: Victor Wembanyama’s MVP Push
Victor Wembanyama is poised for a breakout season, with predictions placing him among the top three contenders for the MVP award. Jared Weiss observes that Wembanyama’s preseason showcased a diverse skillset, hinting at a potentially unprecedented stat line. If the Spurs can secure a top-six finish in the Western Conference while Wembanyama maintains impressive per-game statistics, he’s expected to challenge the last two MVP winners.
Toronto Raptors: Ingram to Shine,Barnes to Fall Short
The toronto Raptors are projected to improve,and Brandon ingram is expected to be the driving force behind that ascent. eric Koreen believes Ingram will be the offensive catalyst and highlights his underrated defensive value. Ingram’s health will be crucial, but if he stays on the court, he’s predicted to become a focal point for opposing defenses and earn an All-Star selection. Conversely,Scottie Barnes is not expected to make the All-Star team.
Utah Jazz: Markkanen on the Move
The Utah Jazz are likely to trade Lauri Markkanen before the trade deadline. Zach Harper explains that the team’s previous extension prevented them from fully embracing a tanking strategy.Now, with the ability to trade Markkanen, the Jazz will seek to acquire additional assets, especially with a loaded upcoming draft, in their search for a franchise player.
Washington Wizards: Shared Scoring, Lower Totals
The Washington Wizards are expected to embrace a more egalitarian offensive approach under Coach Brian Keefe, leading to a surprising prediction: the team’s leading scorer will average under 20.0 points per game. Josh Robbins points to the presence of veteran players like CJ McCollum and Khris Middleton, known for their team-oriented play, and the potential for Cam Whitmore to come off the bench, as factors contributing to a more distributed scoring load. Kyle Kuzma (22.2 PPG two seasons ago) and Jordan Poole (20.5 PPG last season) previously led the team in scoring, but a shift in philosophy is anticipated.
