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The NBA season stretches from October to June, leaving plenty of time for drama, surprises and defining moments to unfold. As the league enters its 81st season, every team has a reason to believe something special could be ahead.
From title contenders to rising young teams, storylines will emerge across the league and shape what makes this season unique.
Here are 30 key storylines, one for every NBA team, heading into the 2026-27 season.
Defense will be the team’s personality
The Hawks are fortunate to have Jalen Johnson, whose breakout season included earning All-NBA honors and assuming the franchise mantle from Trae Young. The Hawks will be defined by their defense this season, which is music to the ears of coach Quin Snyder. Over the last half-decade, the Hawks have struggled on that end of the floor, but no more, not with Lu Dort joining Dyson Daniels — both former All-Defense members — and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, a solid perimeter defender. These three might compete to guard the other team’s leading scorer each night. In any event, opposing teams will find it hard to exploit mismatches against the Hawks.
Jayson Tatum is a solo star
For the first time in his career, Tatum won’t have Jaylen Brown around to share the load. This presents a new challenge for Tatum, who just conquered one by overcoming Achilles surgery and missing almost an entire year. None of his teammates are leading-man types; at this stage of his career, Paul George has all but decided to fit in rather than stand out. So it’s up to Tatum to elevate himself among the league’s best, and the odds are favorable. He’s an All-NBA talent and a franchise centerpiece. And now he has extra motivation to show he’s an MVP candidate.
Hoping a young centerpiece emerges
The Nets have invested heavily in Michael Porter Jr. and Julius Randle, the vets who’ll assume much of the responsibility. Yet there’s a good chance someone from the group of young players collected over the last few drafts will rise up. The most likely candidate is Egor Dёmin, a 6-foot-8 swingman with developing skills who seems ready. Also, watch out for rookie Mikel Brown Jr., who has much upside.
Coby White looks to be a premier point guard
The Hornets felt confident enough in White that they traded LaMelo Ball, their lead singer, and handed White the keys. White had his moments in Chicago previously, and upon arriving in Charlotte last year, displayed enough moxie and smarts (and 15.6 points in 19 minutes per game) that he commanded minutes — and the attention of the front office — down the stretch of a strong finish for him and the team. As long as White connects well with Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel, he’s good.
Caleb wants to take the Windy City by storm
There’s so much to like about Caleb Wilson, the 4th overall draft pick. He can be a “package” — meaning, a player with skills, desire and a personality to match. The city is already smitten by him, and vice versa. He has bounce, size, ability to create and a willingness to show toughness if necessary. Best of all, with the Bulls in the development stage, Wilson will get all the opportunities he needs to show out. The Bulls are so anxious to see what he can do next to Matas Buzelis, who averaged 16 points last season. It’s an exciting scenario, seeing these two young players learn each other and give Chicago some hope.
Peyton could be the missing piece
This time a year ago, Peyton Watson was a promising but unproven role player with the Nuggets. Then, a few months later, he caught fire and at one point, was Denver’s second-best player for a stretch of a few weeks. Then, he essentially priced himself out of town, which was good news for the Cavs, who swooped up and grabbed a good, young front-end rotational guard with size and shot-making ability. Donovan Mitchell and James Harden will enjoy their new teammate should Watson keep progressing, and maybe he’s the one who pushes Cleveland, which reached the East finals last spring, over the hump.
Ausar could be a star
Ausar Thompson gave teams such a fit last season, a breakout for him defensively, that they stayed aware of him at all times. His ability to be a smothering on-ball defender and a solid help defender was enough to convince the Pistons to invest in his future in the form of a contract extension. All that separates Thompson from being a true star is his ability to shoot. Based on how hard he works and how coachable he seems to be, it’s only a matter of time before he develops offensively. This could be the season he drops hints.
Restart for Tyrese and Pacers
Did the last 12 months make you forget what the Pacers were all about with a healthy Tyrese Haliburton? They went to a Game 7 in the NBA Finals in 2025, then everything was placed in a holding pattern until Haliburton recovered from his Achilles injury. If he returns like new, then he’ll be the creator needed so Ivica Zubac can get easier buckets off the pick-and-roll, and will assume some of the load carried by Pascal Siakam. Folks underestimated the Pacers two years ago. Do so again at your own risk.
Wham and Bam
Yes, thank you, ma’am — that’s what the Heat are saying about this newly-formed duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, two players who can dominate the paint, most notably defensively. Two-time MVP Giannis seems anxious to impress his new team and also reclaim his spot in line among the league’s best players. Adebayo may not see as many double-teams thrown his way, especially if this duo gets outside shooting help.
Bucks begin a new Herro search
The good news about starting over is the chance to create a new culture and find a leader. Life without Giannis begins with Tyler Herro, in multiple ways. He’s coming home, he’s motivated to carry a team, and he’s a proven bucket-getter. This has 25 points per game written all over it for Herro, who’s just 26 and in his prime. Meanwhile, the Bucks welcome a pair of first-round picks, Brayden Burries and Nate Ament, as understudies. If all goes well, this developmental stage for the Bucks should go smoothly.
The core of this championship team is intact
Not only do the Knicks return all their core pieces, but these key players are in their prime. Most teams in this situation suffer a defection or two, and the Knicks did lose backup center Mitchell Robinson to Boston. And yet, Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby are 30, 30 and 29, respectively. Along with Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges, the Knicks are bringing back a proven five, with quality pieces off the bench as well. Assuming their hunger to defend the title remains strong, there’s every reason to believe the road to the 2027 championship will run through New York.
Bet on Black to be the next young hopeful
The Magic managed to groom a pair of draft picks into solid players — Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner — and now they await to see whether Anthony Black will fall in line. He stepped into a more demanding role last season when injuries limited Wagner to 34 games and averaged 15 points. An improved 3-point shot will make him even more dangerous this season and will give the Magic three go-to players whenever the game is tight. The expectations for him are high, which means he’ll have his chances.
LeBron’s next and maybe final stop
He has won a championship in every city he represented, most famously in Miami, where he won two, and Cleveland, where he broke a spell. This comes as a great omen for Philly, champagne-starved since 1983. Even better, LeBron James walks into a Sixers situation that can carry him, instead of vice versa: Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, all available to reduce the load of a soon-to-be 42-year-old. Given that, and the understandably steep projections, this experiment has the chance to fit the definition of a smashing success. As LeBron said, he’s not here to lose in the first round.
Kawhi boomerangs back
Will it seem like 2019 again in Toronto? A Raptors fan can only hope. If nothing else, the Raptors will once again be fueled by Kawhi Leonard, the hero of the 2019 championship run who still has something to prove seven years later. He has different teammates this time around, yet there’s quality abound — Scottie Barnes mainly, but also RJ Barrett, Collin Murray-Boyles, Ja’Kobe Walter and Jamal Shead. Kawhi can teach this group how to go far.
Dybantsa ready to be very good very quickly
There are understandably high hopes in Washington regarding the No.1 overall pick, as there would be for any team. AJ Dybantsa seems to check plenty of boxes — athleticism, skills and the desire to be great. The last player the Wizards chose with the No.1 overall pick, John Wall in 2010, turned out well. Dybantsa could be better, at least, that’s the hope for a star-starved franchise.
Kyrie’s return
The Mavericks could use a smart veteran who can set up teammates, create his own shot off the dribble and bring experience from both a rebuilding team and a championship team. Well, Kyrie Irving is that guy, and he’s back. After missing an entire season following knee surgery, Irving looks to shift to a new role for him — mentor, leader, as well as a top option. While the Mavs are being constructed around Cooper Flagg, as they should, Irving will have an important role on this team for as long as he’s in Dallas, short or long term.
Cam and Christian ready to bounce back
Nikola Jokić will need some assistance in order to tug the Nuggets back to the NBA Finals, and much will depend on Cam Johnson and Christian Braun’s ability to bounce back. Well, the signs are positive, if only because Johnson needed a year to become familiar with a new team, and Braun learned lessons last year, his first with heavier expectations. These two can and likely will be much better, and Jokić certainly will do his part to elevate their play.
Yaxel Lendeborg is already proven
He won a national championship in college. He’s 24 years old — well-seasoned for a rookie. He was the MVP of the Summer League. Lendeborg isn’t your typical rookie, in other words, and this comes as refreshing news for the Warriors, who want to salvage the remaining prime of Steph Curry. Lendeborg seems ready to help right away, or at least provide a bridge while Jimmy Butler recovers from knee surgery. A strong rookie season by him would not only make the Warriors competitive, but give them a building block for the future.
Fred VanVleet makes a recovery return
He pulled up lame even before last season tipped off, denying the Rockets a seasoned point guard in Kevin Durant’s first season in Houston. Well, the long wait is over, and VanVleet is ready to give the Rockets the savvy set-up player they crave. His goal is to mesh with Durant, get easier buckets for Amen Thompson, Steven Adams and Alperen Sengun, and mainly, to bring his championship experience (Toronto) to a team that’s anxious to make a deep run while Durant is still a difference-maker.
Darius Garland and Keaton Wagler backcourt
The Clippers are moving forward with a pair of guards who might re-energize this franchise. Garland played only 19 games last season due to injuries after arriving from Cleveland; he’s a certified bucket who’s usually good for 20-25 points a night. The Clippers believe he’ll be an ideal match with their first-round pick; Wagler brings similar skills and is a floor-spacer. If these two mesh as projected, the Clippers won’t have much problem scoring, especially when they get Brandon Ingram back from injury.
LA has Luka, Luka has help
There’s every reason to suspect Luka Dončić will have an MVP-flavored season. His scoring is matched only by a very select few, he’s a big guard who commands the floor in multiple ways offensively, and his defense has improved. Best of all, the Lakers locked up at least two positions around him — at the other guard spot with Austin Reaves and at center with Walker Kessler. Once again, therefore, this franchise is seemingly moving from one era to another with very little, if any, discomfort. It all depends on Luka’s ability to dominate the MVP conversation, and chances are good that he’ll get a mention or five.
The next-up group has been identified
The Grizzlies managed to move on from the old regime in just a few years, mainly because their drafting has been solid and the early returns are promising. Cedric Coward is a keeper, and now he’s joined by Cameron Boozer, the Grizzlies’ top pick, who checks a lot of boxes. He has an NBA-ready body and pedigree as the son of Carlos Boozer, and he succeeded at every level and in every situation against top competition. Boozer brings toughness and an all-around offensive game. Memphis is moving forward with the right pieces.
LaMelo and Ant, Twin Citizens
This first season together should be fun, well worth the price of admission. LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards are supremely skilled and, even better for Minnesota, appear to complement each other well. This can only translate into entertaining basketball — imagine the creativity on display each and every night — and could nudge the Timberwolves a level higher as well.
Zion is finally ready to be That Guy
Zion Williamson is in the best shape of his basketball life, both physically and mentally. He has also let go of the past, when he was frequently injured and never could gain traction. It’s not too late for Zion to become a star; he’s only 26. And if he does take that next step, the Pelicans, with Dejounte Murray and a good young group featuring Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, look to make a playoff push.
Thunder still deep and dangerous
The core of the Thunder remains intact with two-time Kia MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren and also Jalen Williams, who played only 38 games last season because of injuries and couldn’t make it through the playoffs. That alone makes OKC a championship favorite; not many teams have three players at that level. But even after suffering some roster defections this summer, the Thunder remain in great shape. It’s step-up time for a handful of players, such as Jared McCain, Cason Wallace, Ajay Mitchell and Kenrich Williams, among others. It’s their chance for more prominent roles. A core of star players plus quality reserves might be enough to hold off the rising threat in San Antonio.
Suns believe they belong
Something unexpected happened as the Suns began rebuilding last season: They never really did. The Suns were the surprise team, winning 45 games after losing Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal and playing for a new coach, and reached the Play-In Tournament. This has instilled a level of confidence in this team, which will be needed because they won’t catch anyone by surprise anymore. And that’s fine with the Suns, who quickly found and developed a rotational player in Collin Gillespie and hope to do the same with Khaman Maluach, their young seven-footer, while Devin Booker and Jalen Green handle the scoring load.
It’s Damian Lillard’s time again
Perhaps the most popular player in Trail Blazers history, Dame returns to the scene of his greatest moments after a brief stop in Milwaukee, and this time will embrace a new role. While the Blazers certainly expect premier production from him, Dame is also the veteran leader. He looks to help in Ja Morant’s effort to reclaim stardom after an injury interruption and a trade from Memphis, and also to mentor such young talents as Scoot Henderson and Deni Avdija. This Dame story has a chance for a solid final few chapters, especially if the Blazers crash the playoff party next spring.
Darius Acuff will get the green light
It’s not often that a rookie arrives and projects to immediately lead his team in scoring. The chance of that happening this season in Sacramento is rather high, only because Acuff, the No. 7 overall pick, has the ingredients to make a scoring impact right away. He’s a natural scorer at the three most important stations — the rim, mid-range and deep. The Kings do have Zach LaVine and also Domantas Sabonis back from injury, yet don’t be surprised if Acuff gets their respect, along with the ball, from the opening tip.
Wemby’s revenge
The bitter taste of defeat can often provide the motivation necessary to regroup and rebound. If the microscope was intense when Victor Wembanyama first entered the league as the ‘Next Big Thing’, well, it’s probably times two now, after falling short of a championship last June. How will he respond? His ceiling is rather scary, given how he impacts games at both ends and… is still improving. The beauty is he doesn’t need to dominate every night, given his teammates are Dylan Harper, Stephon Castle, De’Aaron Fox and Devin Vassell, among others. That said, the rest of the league is once again on alert with regard to Wemby, who returns better… and also a bit angrier.
Jazzy young backcourt
This team is on an ambitious youth movement that should begin to show encouraging progress this season, and perhaps the main focal point lies in the backcourt, specifically rookie Darryn Peterson and Keyonte George. Both are natural creators with enviable offensive skills. Peterson seems NBA-ready with lots of variety in his shot-making. Meanwhile, George took a positive step forward last season by averaging 23 points with six assists; that’s why the Jazz extended his contract this summer. This could be Utah’s backcourt for the present and future.
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