5 Teams Climbing the NBA Odds Board Ahead of the 2026–27 Season

The 2026 NBA offseason has dramatically reshaped the championship landscape. Blockbuster trades, high-profile free-agent signings, and major contract extensions have altered the balance of power across the league, with several franchises emerging as stronger title contenders before training camp has even begun.

Here are five teams that have seen their championship hopes rise significantly heading into the 2026–27 NBA season.

1. Philadelphia 76ers

The 76ers have become one of the biggest winners of the offseason after assembling a star-studded roster featuring LeBron James, Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown, and Tyrese Maxey.

While expectations are sky-high, both LeBron and Brown have emphasized that talent alone won’t guarantee success. Building chemistry and developing trust will be essential if Philadelphia hopes to end its decades-long championship drought.

Why They’re Rising

• Added LeBron James
• Acquired Jaylen Brown
• Strong MVP-caliber core
• Improved championship experience

2. New York Knicks

Fresh off a championship-winning season, the Knicks remain among the NBA’s elite.

Led by Jalen Brunson, New York has retained its championship core while adding depth, making the team one of the favorites to defend its title.

Why They’re Rising

• Defending NBA champions
• Strong roster continuity
• Elite coaching and defense

3. Phoenix Suns

Phoenix reinforced its long-term plans by signing Dillon Brooks to a three-year extension after his breakout campaign.

Combined with Devin Booker and a deeper supporting cast, the Suns have positioned themselves as serious contenders in the Western Conference.

Why They’re Rising

• Dillon Brooks extension
• Improved defensive identity
• Stable core around Booker

4. Houston Rockets

The Rockets continue to emerge as one of the league’s fastest-improving teams.

After adding experienced veterans to complement their talented young core, Houston has become a legitimate playoff contender with the potential to challenge the Western Conference’s top teams.

Why They’re Rising

• Rapid development of young stars
• Strong offseason additions
• Improved roster depth

5. Los Angeles Lakers

Although LeBron James departed for Philadelphia, the Lakers remain optimistic thanks to Luka Dončić, who has become the new face of the franchise.

With Dončić leading the offense and the front office continuing to reshape the roster, Los Angeles believes it can remain a playoff contender despite entering a new era.

Why They’re Rising

• Luka Dončić as franchise cornerstone
• Increased roster flexibility
• Opportunity to build around a younger superstar

Biggest Offseason Storylines

Several moves have reshaped the NBA hierarchy:

• LeBron James joins the Philadelphia 76ers.
• Jaylen Brown begins a new chapter in Philadelphia.
• Dillon Brooks signs a long-term extension with Phoenix.
• Luka Dončić leads the Lakers into the post-LeBron era.
• Multiple contenders strengthen their depth through free agency and trades.

The Bottom Line

The 2026 offseason has significantly changed the NBA championship picture. While the Philadelphia 76ers have generated the most buzz with their superstar acquisitions, teams like the Knicks, Suns, Rockets, and Lakers have also strengthened their positions. As training camp approaches, the race for the 2026–27 NBA title already looks far more competitive than it did just a few weeks ago.