The OKC Thunder are the defending champions, have the best record in the league this season and a young roster that is the envy of the league. There is also a chance that they will end up with a top five pick in the 2026 draft anyway, which is why most believe Sam Presti is the best executive in the game.
He built the Thunder by trading away stars for future picks and young players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He stockpiled draft picks, eventually turning them into star players and creating what looks to be a juggernaut. The Thunder are the clear frontrunners for another title, and teams have to measure themselves against OKC when considering moves.