The 2026 NBA conference finals pit the Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, against the San Antonio Spurs, where Victor Wembanyama seeks a breakthrough. In the East, the New York Knicks face the Cleveland Cavaliers, with Jalen Brunson and Karl‑Anthony Towns at the center of the clash.

Thunder have swept Phoenix and Los Angeles, while the Spurs dismantled Portland and Minnesota. Spurs’ perimeter trio—Luguentz Dort, Cason Wallace, Alex Caruso—has tested OKC’s defense in five regular‑season meetings, forcing the Thunder to adjust their switch‑heavy scheme. The Spurs’ experience, having survived two tight playoff series, could counter OKC’s defensive prowess.

Meanwhile, the Knicks swept Atlanta and Philadelphia, benefiting from a rested rotation. Cleveland’s bigs, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, have earned respect through physical play, yet the Cavaliers endured two seven‑game series. The East’s fatigue gap—Knicks 309 minutes versus Cavaliers 460—may prove decisive.

These matchups will decide who advances to the Larry O’Brien Trophy showdown, with defensive matchups and stamina emerging as the key battlegrounds.