With the 2025-26 NBA season reaching its midway point, the race for playoff spots is intensifying. As teams gear up for the trade deadline, several big questions loom for franchises across the league. The Oklahoma City Thunder, with a 36-8 record, are currently leading the pack, but the rest of the NBA is closing in fast. From the Detroit Pistons’ defensive prowess to the Los Angeles Clippers’ recent surge, there are plenty of storylines to follow as the second half of the season begins. Here’s a look at the most pressing questions for the top teams in the league.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2025-26 record: 36-8
Big Question: Can Jalen Williams get back on track?
Oklahoma City’s stellar season has hit a roadblock with Jalen Williams sidelined due to a hamstring injury. The young star will miss at least two weeks, adding to the challenges he’s already faced this year. After undergoing a second wrist surgery, Williams has struggled to find his form. With him out, the Thunder will lean even more on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, their depth, and the rising star that is Chet Holmgren. Will Williams’ absence derail their momentum, or can the Thunder continue their march toward the playoffs?
2. Detroit Pistons
2025-26 record: 31-10
Big Question: How much better can their defense get?
Despite doubts about their shooting and offensive consistency, the Pistons have proved their doubters wrong with their dominant defense. Detroit leads the league by giving up just 99.5 points per 100 possessions, and they’ve tightened up even further in the fourth quarter, allowing just 91.8 points. As they continue to refine their defensive game, how much more can they improve as the season progresses?
3. San Antonio Spurs
2025-26 record: 30-14
Big Question: Can the Spurs maintain their momentum?
After a strong start, the Spurs are looking to maintain their success, despite dealing with injuries and the pressures of being a young team. With Victor Wembanyama flourishing, including three consecutive games with four or more three-pointers, San Antonio seems poised for a deep playoff run. However, the challenge lies in sustaining their momentum through the second half of the season. Can they handle the mental and physical demands as they push for a top playoff spot?
4. Denver Nuggets
2025-26 record: 29-15
Big Question: What is Peyton Watson’s future in Denver?
Peyton Watson’s breakout performances have raised key questions for the Nuggets, especially as they look to navigate the remainder of the season without Nikola Jokic for several games. Watson has averaged impressive numbers in the absence of the MVP, but with Jokic’s eventual return, how will the Nuggets utilize Watson’s growing role? Additionally, Watson is a restricted free agent this summer, and the Nuggets will need to decide whether they can afford to keep him.
5. Boston Celtics
2025-26 record: 26-16
Big Question: Can the Celtics rely on Jayson Tatum to return to form?
Boston’s second-place standing in the East has come despite Jayson Tatum’s extended absence. While the Celtics have shown they can remain a contender without him, the big question is whether Tatum will return to his MVP-caliber form once he is back on the court. Even at 75% of his usual level, Tatum could propel Boston to the top of the Eastern Conference. How quickly can he regain his full potential, and how will that impact the Celtics’ playoff hopes?
6. Minnesota Timberwolves
2025-26 record: 27-17
Big Question: Can the Timberwolves find guard help by the trade deadline?
With a solid record, the Timberwolves are still in need of more guard help. Rob Dillingham hasn’t panned out, and while Mike Conley is a reliable veteran, he isn’t a long-term solution. President of basketball operations Tim Connelly is known for making bold moves, so will Minnesota add another piece before the trade deadline to bolster their chances for the postseason?
7. Houston Rockets
2025-26 record: 26-15
Big Question: Can the supporting cast around Kevin Durant gain consistency?
Houston has leaned heavily on Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun, but the Rockets need more from their supporting cast to make a real push. With Fred VanVleet still recovering from a torn ACL, players like Amen Thompson, Reed Sheppard, and Tari Eason need to step up. Can this group find more consistency and take some of the pressure off Durant as Houston aims for a strong finish to the season?
8. New York Knicks
2025-26 record: 25-18
Big Question: Is the Knicks’ recent slide just a bump in the road?
The Knicks are facing a critical stretch after a 2-6 slide. While they’ve been inconsistent on defense, their struggles have raised concerns about their ability to meet owner James Dolan’s expectations of reaching the Finals. Is their recent downturn a temporary issue, or has the pressure of those high expectations started to take its toll?
9. Phoenix Suns
2025-26 record: 27-17
Big Question: How will Jalen Green fit into their success?
After missing much of the season with a hamstring injury, Jalen Green’s return presents an interesting challenge for the Suns. As the team continues its successful campaign, adding Green to the mix could shift the rotation and impact the overall chemistry. Can they successfully integrate Green without disrupting their current rhythm?
10. Los Angeles Lakers
2025-26 record: 26-16
Big Question: Can the Lakers upgrade their roster before the trade deadline?
With expiring contracts and a potential high draft pick, the Lakers have the flexibility to make a significant move before the trade deadline. Can they find the right two-way wing to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis? As Austin Reaves nears his return, Los Angeles will likely be active in exploring trade options to bolster their championship aspirations.
