The Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the 2025-26 NBA regular season, finishing with a 63-16 record despite significant injury attrition. With stars like Jalen Williams missing 46 games, the Thunder remained the Western Conference favorite, posting a remarkable 130-30 record over the past two seasons. Their championship defense appears well-positioned as the postseason begins, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continuing his All-North performances.

The Detroit Pistons have staged the most impressive turnaround, climbing from the league's worst record two seasons ago to a 57-22 mark this year. Led by MVP candidate Cade Cunningham and defensive standout Jalen Duren, Detroit exceeded all expectations after losing Malik Beasley to a gambling investigation. The question now is whether one playoff series win will satisfy this suddenly successful franchise.

Boston Celtics fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Jayson Tatum returned from his Achilles injury to help secure a 54-25 record and the second seed in the East. The Spurs improved by 25+ wins behind Victor Wembanyama's MVP performances, while the Knicks faced "finals or bust" expectations with inconsistent results. The stage is set for a postseason where expectations will finally be tested against reality.