ESPN's NBA Future Power Rankings project team success through 2028-29, with analysts rating teams in five categories. The Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs lead the rankings, followed by Boston, Dallas and Denver.

The Thunder, ranked No. 1, finished with the NBA's best record and point differential in each of the past two seasons. Oklahoma City has a championship core with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, plus extra draft picks and respected GM Sam Presti.

San Antonio ranks No. 2, boasting the best young trio led by Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs may avoid financial crunch after Wembanyama opted not to include an escalator clause, saving nearly $10 million annually starting in 2027-28.

Other top teams include Boston Celtics, Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets, each positioned well for sustained success over the next three seasons.