The Cavs are backed to return to the top of the Eastern Conference after finishing there in 2025. They’ve got a strong starting five, and they project to be the strongest of the five teams in the Central Division. The Indiana Pacers are set for a bounce-back year with Tyrese Haliburton back from injury, and they can beat the Pistons to second in their division.

The Lakers are the strongest side in a weak Pacific division, following their summer overhaul. Second place behind the odds-on favourites in this division is up for grabs, but the Golden State Warriors can seal it. The Phoenix Suns are seen as the next-best side, but their 21-30 record against winning teams suggests they’ll be in for a tougher year. The Warriors drafted some height in Yaxel Lendeborg, plus they have assets for an in-season trade, and All-Star Jimmy Butler will return from injury mid-season to partner Steph Curry. The Warriors are 42-18 when Curry and Butler share the court, so back them to surge into second behind LA.