NBA Power Rankings: Key Questions for Every Team at Midseason
With just two weeks left before the 2025 NBA trade deadline, the 2025-26 season is entering its second half, and the competition is fierce. Which teams will rise to the occasion, and which will falter as they prepare for the stretch run?
As the league nears the halfway point, there are some clear frontrunners, including the surprising Detroit Pistons, who lead the Eastern Conference by 5.5 games. Meanwhile, the LA Clippers have found momentum with a six-game win streak, propelled by star performances from Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.
With trades and injuries on the horizon, here are the key questions facing each of the top NBA teams as the season heads into its second half.
Note: Team rankings reflect the collective analysis of ESPN’s NBA experts.
Oklahoma City Thunder
2025-26 record: 36-8
Biggest question: Can Jalen Williams bounce back from injury?
The Thunder are firing on all cylinders, but a hamstring injury will sideline Jalen Williams for at least two weeks, which adds uncertainty to Oklahoma City’s stellar season. Williams’ struggles have been compounded by a wrist injury that required a second procedure earlier this season. As the Thunder continue to rely on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, they’ll hope Williams can return strong in time for the playoff push.
Detroit Pistons
2025-26 record: 31-10
Biggest question: How much better can their defense get?
The Pistons’ defense has been nothing short of dominant, limiting opponents to a league-low 99.5 points per 100 possessions. As Detroit remains the East’s leader, they are proving that defense wins games. But as the season progresses, can they continue to lock down opponents while addressing their offensive concerns?
San Antonio Spurs
2025-26 record: 30-14
Biggest question: Can the Spurs maintain their momentum?
The Spurs have been one of the league’s biggest surprises, powered by rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama and a team full of young talent. After securing a third consecutive win, the team appears poised for success. But can they stay on course during the grind of the second half of the season?
Denver Nuggets
2025-26 record: 29-15
Biggest question: What role will Peyton Watson play going forward?
Peyton Watson’s breakout performances have forced the Nuggets to ask key questions about their roster. With Nikola Jokic set to return soon, how will the Nuggets balance Watson’s increased role with the return of their MVP? Additionally, Watson’s status as a restricted free agent raises concerns about his long-term future in Denver.
Boston Celtics
2025-26 record: 26-16
Biggest question: Can Jayson Tatum return to form?
After a lengthy absence, Jayson Tatum’s status is critical to the Celtics’ title aspirations. Boston’s strong play in his absence has kept them in contention, but the question is whether Tatum can return to his MVP-caliber self in time for the playoff race.
Minnesota Timberwolves
2025-26 record: 27-17
Biggest question: Can the Timberwolves bolster their guard play?
While Minnesota has been solid, their guard depth remains a glaring need. With trade rumors swirling, will the Timberwolves address this gap before the deadline to solidify their playoff hopes?
Houston Rockets
2025-26 record: 26-15
Biggest question: Can the supporting cast around Kevin Durant gain consistency?
The Rockets have shown promise, but their young supporting cast still lacks consistency. The return of Fred VanVleet could provide a boost, but can the rest of the roster step up as the season progresses?
New York Knicks
2025-26 record: 25-18
Biggest question: Is their recent slump a sign of bigger problems?
The Knicks have faced adversity recently, losing six of eight games. With rising tensions at Madison Square Garden, the question remains whether their current struggles are temporary or indicative of larger issues for the franchise.
Phoenix Suns
2025-26 record: 27-17
Biggest question: How will Jalen Green fit into the Suns’ rotation?
Jalen Green’s return from injury presents both an opportunity and a challenge for the Suns. With their current success, how will they integrate the dynamic scorer without disrupting their established chemistry?
Los Angeles Lakers
2025-26 record: 26-16
Biggest question: Can they upgrade their roster before the trade deadline?
With significant expiring contracts and valuable draft picks at their disposal, the Lakers have the flexibility to make a move. Will they add a key piece to push their championship hopes forward?
Golden State Warriors
2025-26 record: 25-20
Biggest question: How will the Jimmy Butler injury affect their plans?
The Warriors were dealt a tough blow with Jimmy Butler’s ACL injury, which could alter their trade deadline strategy. With the team reeling, will they go all-in for another championship run or focus on long-term growth?
Cleveland Cavaliers
2025-26 record: 24-20
Biggest question: Can they reestablish themselves as East contenders?
After a rocky first half, the Cavs have struggled with injuries and inconsistencies. Can they recapture the form that made them preseason favorites and climb into a strong playoff position?
Toronto Raptors
2025-26 record: 26-19
Biggest question: Can their offense become more efficient?
While the Raptors excel defensively, their offensive struggles have held them back. Can they make the necessary improvements to become a true contender in the East?
Philadelphia 76ers
2025-26 record: 23-19
Biggest question: What direction will they take at the trade deadline?
With a solid first half, the 76ers find themselves in the middle of the East playoff race. Will they bolster their roster at the deadline or focus on financial flexibility for the future?
Orlando Magic
2025-26 record: 23-19
Biggest question: Can they maintain consistency with a healthy roster?
The Magic have been inconsistent this season, plagued by injuries. With key players returning to the lineup, will they be able to stay healthy and make a second-half push?
Miami Heat
2025-26 record: 23-21
Biggest question: Can they find the consistency to rise in the standings?
The Heat have shown flashes of brilliance, but their inconsistency has kept them from truly contending. With key players like Bam Adebayo finding their rhythm, will Miami finally string together a series of wins to climb the standings?
