The NBA Western Conference rankings for the 2026-27 season reveal a competitive market, with the San Antonio Spurs leading the pack. For the first time in two decades, there’s an argument to be made that the Eastern Conference is stronger 1-10 heading into the season. The bottom end of the West playoff picture feels softer than usual, but the top-6 teams are exceptionally strong, led by perhaps the two best teams in the NBA.
The Spurs, who jumped from 34 to 62 wins last year, are expected to maintain their dominance. Their success hinges on Victor Wembanyama, a 7’5 superstar and the best defensive player in the game. Despite lacking a mid-range game, Wembanyama is considered one of the best players in the league. If he stays healthy, there’s no way this team finishes below the No. 2 seed.
Top Contenders in the West
The Oklahoma City Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers follow closely behind. The Thunder, despite losing key players like Lu Dort, maintain their strength with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and an elite defense.
The Lakers, under JJ Redick, have won 103 regular-season games in two seasons. The addition of Walker Kessler addresses their rim protection needs, complementing Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Luka, a good coach, and better rim protection make the Lakers’ floor solid, if not their ceiling.
The Minnesota Timberwolves and Houston Rockets round out the top five. The Wolves rely on Rudy Gobert, Anthony Edwards, and LaMelo Ball, while the Rockets, with Kevin Durant and a young core, aim for a higher seed. Houston’s young players, including Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., and Reed Sheppard, could take another step forward this year. Houston could reach as high as the No. 3 seed without surprising me.
The Denver Nuggets, despite a frustrating offseason, remain competitive with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.
The Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers are on the rise. The Suns, under Jordan Ott, have become a legitimate playoff threat with aggressive defensive schemes and offensive rebounding. Ott’s 45-win debut and players like Collin Gillespie, who is expected to outplay his $48 million deal, highlight their potential. The Blazers, with Damian Lillard returning from injury and Ja Morant as his backcourt mate, face challenges in balancing their lineup.
The Utah Jazz, exiting their tanking strategy, boast a talented roster with Jaren Jackson Jr. and Lauri Markkanen, but questions remain about their playmaking and defense. The Memphis Grizzlies, with a new young core including Cameron Boozer and Zach Edey, show promise.
The Golden State Warriors, despite injuries, still have Stephen Curry, who can compete in short bursts. The Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans, Los Angeles Clippers, and Sacramento Kings face various challenges, from injuries to roster transitions.
The Mavericks struggle with Kyrie Irving’s injury return and a lack of future first-round picks. The Pelicans, with Zion Williamson and young talent, face lineup competitiveness issues. The Clippers, despite a decent roster, face a bleak future with Kawhi Leonard out and a 2027 draft pick owed to the Thunder.
The Kings, plagued by injuries last season, aim for a healthier campaign with Domantas Sabonis, Keegan Murray, and Zach LaVine returning.
Western Conference’s Rising Teams and Future Prospects
The Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers are aiming to build on their recent successes.
Struggling Franchises and Uncertain Futures
As the 2026-27 NBA season unfolds, the Western Conference presents a mix of established powerhouses, rising contenders, and franchises in transition, setting the stage for an exciting and unpredictable season. For more NBA preview content, check out my list of the 25 most explosive athletes in the league today.