The 2026 NBA conference finals have begun, pitting the Oklahoma City Thunder against the San Antonio Spurs in the West and the New York Knicks against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the East. Oklahoma City dispatched the Lakers, while San Antonio routed Minnesota in six games. Brunson swept the 76ers, and the Cavaliers trounced the No. 1 seed Detroit in Game 7.

Analysts lean heavily in favor of the Knicks, with eight of twelve experts predicting a five‑game series win over Cleveland. The Thunder also enjoy strong support, with seven of twelve foreseeing a seven‑game showdown against the Spurs, who favor Victor Wembanyama. Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander and Jalen Brunson emerge as the central figures in their teams’ championship hopes.

A victory in the conference finals would secure a berth to the NBA Finals and lock in a coveted home‑court advantage. The playoff run also heightens interest in the league’s emerging stars, as performances here could cement their status as future Hall of Famers and influence next‑season contract negotiations and for their team's future prospects.

With the Thunder and Knicks projected to advance, the stage is set for a dramatic showdown that could reshape the NBA’s power balance. Fans will watch to see whether the Thunder’s depth or the Knicks’ star‑centered play dominates, ultimately deciding who will lift the Larry O’Brian Trophy this season in the 2026 NBA Finals to.