Does the East have a true favorite? Execs, coaches, scouts weigh in

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Much attention has been paid to the top of the NBA's Western Conference this season, and deservedly so.

The defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder started 24-1, have the league's reigning Most Valuable Player in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (he's a favorite for his second award) and are hoping to become the NBA's first repeat champion since the Golden State Warriors in 2018.

The San Antonio Spurs, one of the surprise teams, are on Oklahoma City's heels in the standings. Led by third-year phenom Victor Wembanyama and second-year breakout star Stephon Castle, they have defeated the Thunder four times in five meetings this season.…