NBA Future Power Rankings Released: Thunder on Top, Lakers Surge
UPDATE: The latest NBA Future Power Rankings have just been released, placing the Oklahoma City Thunder at the top as they head into the 2025-26 season. With a championship-caliber young core and a historic trajectory, the Thunder are poised to break records in the coming seasons.
New reports from ESPN reveal that the Thunder, led by reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, have achieved the highest Future Power Rating (FPR) since the Kevin Durant-era Golden State Warriors. This comes amidst discussions about whether they can maintain their dominance as a new champion emerges each season.
As the rankings shake out, the Los Angeles Lakers have surged 13 spots, now ranked eighth after acquiring Luka Doncic and extending his contract. The Lakers are capitalizing on their market appeal and potential cap space, positioning themselves as strong contenders for the upcoming years despite uncertainties surrounding LeBron James’ future.
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets have made headlines with a remarkable jump to second place, thanks to their impressive young roster and the addition of future Hall of Famer Kevin Durant. Analyst Tim Bontemps notes that after languishing near the bottom for years, the Rockets are now a force to be reckoned with, boasting top rankings in players, management, and draft assets.
Other notable movements in the rankings include the Cleveland Cavaliers rising to fourth after a strong previous season, and the Golden State Warriors maintaining a top ranking despite their veteran roster. The San Antonio Spurs hold steady in the tenth spot, bolstered by the excitement surrounding rookie Victor Wembanyama.
This ranking reflects a significant shift in the league’s landscape, with nine franchises experiencing dramatic changes—four moving up and five falling by double digits from last year.
The implications of these rankings extend far beyond mere numbers. Teams like the Thunder and Rockets are setting a foundation for sustained success, while franchises like the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers face mounting pressure to improve after disappointing seasons.
As the NBA gears up for the 2025-26 season, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring these developments. Will the Thunder maintain their top position, or will emerging talents challenge their dominance?
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analysis as the NBA season approaches. For a complete view of the rankings and team-by-team breakdowns, visit ESPN’s official site.
