The 2026 NBA playoffs tip off this week with a loaded field. Here's our complete preview with bracket analysis, series predictions, and underrated contenders.
Western Conference Favorites
#1 Oklahoma City Thunder: Best regular season record. Elite defense and depth. SGA is in MVP form. The favorites, but lack playoff experience depth.
#2 Dallas Mavericks: Luka and Kyrie are the best playoff duo. Championship experience from 2024 run. Dangerous in a 7-game series.
Eastern Conference Favorites
#1 Boston Celtics: Defending champions with the league's best offense. Tatum, Brown, and a deep roster make them the team to beat.
#2 Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis remains a force of nature. New supporting cast is clicking at the right time.
Dark Horses
- Memphis Grizzlies: Ja Morant is healthy and unstoppable. Nobody wants to face them.
- New York Knicks: Brunson, OG, and a hostile MSG crowd. Capable of an upset.
- Sacramento Kings: De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis are a lethal combo.
