NBA Western Conference power rankings for 2026/27 season

The NBA Western Conference enters the 2026/27 season with significant shifts in power dynamics following major trades and free agency moves. The San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder emerge as top contenders after competing in the previous conference finals. While the Spurs have bolstered their young core with targeted additions like Tobias Harris, the Thunder have had to restructure their roster to comply with collective bargaining rules.

Other notable developments include the Los Angeles Lakers acquiring Luka Doncic and the Minnesota Timberwolves adding LaMelo Ball. The Denver Nuggets continue to build around Nikola Jokic, while the Houston Rockets face roster challenges involving Kevin Durant. The Dallas Mavericks are focusing on depth with the additions of Santi Aldama and Zaccharie Risacher to compete for a playoff spot.