Oklahoma City Thunder hold the strongest position among 2026 NBA Championship contenders after posting the league’s best regular-season record at 64-18 and advancing undefeated through the opening playoff rounds behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistent scoring and a deep supporting cast that has remained effective even without Jalen Williams. San Antonio Spurs sit second at 62-20 with Victor Wembanyama’s interior dominance and improved team spacing driving their second seed in the West. New York Knicks have climbed to 53-29 and earned the East’s third seed through a late-season surge featuring strong defensive play and balanced scoring. Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers round out the top five with 60-22 and 52-30 records, respectively, though both face tougher paths through the East bracket. Trader consensus reflects these standings, recent playoff momentum, and roster health as the primary drivers.