NBA Playoff Changes and Teams to Watch
The NBA playoff landscape can shift dramatically from year to year. This time, four teams that didn’t make the playoffs last season have found their way into the bracket. Notably, the Detroit Pistons have managed a record of 14 wins to 44 losses, securing the sixth seed in the East, while the Houston Rockets leaped to the second seed in the West with a record of 41 wins and 52 losses.
Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 season, it seems at least three playoff spots are up for grabs, with the potential for even more. The Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers are both vying for a gap year in the East after losing their star players to injuries. Meanwhile, the Memphis Grizzlies are likely to take a step back in the West, having traded Desmond Bain for four first-round picks, in addition to the Orlando Magic.
As always, the NBA season is filled with surprises. By the time the postseason arrives, there may be another playoff spot or two ready to be claimed. There are a few teams that might make a splash in 2026, having missed out on the playoffs last year.
The San Antonio Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama, appeared set for a run in last season’s play-in tournament. This season, they boast a strong roster around him. If everything clicks, a playoff spot could be in sight. Wembanyama, standing at 7’5″, is expected to excel defensively and could be one of the top offensive players as well. With Dearon Fox expected to have a full season—and the second overall pick, Dylan Harper—there’s potential for the Spurs. However, depth in shooting and wing positions is a concern. The competition in the West is fierce, but if Wembanyama stays injury-free, they could aim for more than 45 wins.
The Atlanta Hawks, who barely made it into last year’s playoffs, now have the opportunity to improve significantly. Trae Young remains a key playmaker, and this roster appears to be the best he’s had yet, including the standout team from the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals. A key factor for their success will be the return of Jalen Johnson, who showed promise in becoming the team’s leading player. His ability to score, particularly with his shooting, will be crucial. The Hawks haven’t just relied on internal development, adding players like Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and Luke Kennard. Porzingis, despite his injury history, could provide them with a stretch option they’ve been missing. Alexander-Walker brings more scoring alongside Young. Even the 2024 No. 1 overall pick, Zaccharie Risacher, could be a useful addition in his second season. For the Hawks to reach their potential, everything needs to align, but there’s a shot at close to 50 wins, especially with the Pelicans’ unprotected first-round pick in 2026 adding to the excitement.
Then there’s Joel Embiid. The questions surrounding his ability to perform as an elite player and play around 60 games this season loom large. If the answers are no, the Sixers’ chances at making the playoffs diminish significantly. Behind Embiid, the depth appears lacking, although they do have promising young guards like Tyrese Maxey, who has proven his worth, and Jared McCain, a strong newcomer before injuries hampered his season. Ultimately, the team’s fate rides heavily on Embiid, more so than on Paul George. In a worst-case scenario, these could turn out to be two of the least favorable deals in the league. However, if both veterans can perform at a decent level, the Sixers might still find a way to edge out the Raptors and Bulls for a playoff berth.
