The NBA has a long history of upending expectations—last season saw underdogs go deep, reminding us that consistency is overrated. Now, several quietly retooled teams could rewrite the script in 2025–26.
Recent shifts suggest the Orlando Magic may be levelling up, and the Houston Rockets just signed Kevin Durant. These developments hint at more than simple flashes—they’re the roots of long-term disruption.
Beyond marquee names, it’s the strategic roster moves and upward-trending cores that often unsettle favourites. From championship contenders to mid-tier teams, every season needs that one squad you didn’t see coming.
Here are five teams striking that profile this year in the NBA, each armed with a unique mix of experience, growth, and surprise potential.
Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty ImagesLos Angeles Clippers’ Veteran Reset
The Clippers overhauled their roster around experience and balance. Veterans Bradley Beal, Chris Paul, and Brook Lopez give Los Angeles the steadiness and spacing it has lacked in past playoff runs.
Health remains the big question, but on paper, the Clippers have the depth to cause trouble in the West.
Orlando Magic’s Young Core Rising
Orlando has been building patiently, and the pieces may finally be clicking. Paolo Banchero looks ready for an All-NBA leap, Franz Wagner keeps sharpening his two-way game, and improved guard depth adds balance.
If their shooting holds up, the Magic could shock the East and accelerate their rebuild into a playoff breakthrough.
New York Knicks’ Depth Advantage
The Knicks added to their trademark toughness with better spacing and reliable bench scoring. Jalen Brunson continues to rise as one of the league’s most underrated floor generals, and with depth at every position, New York could outlast bigger names in a seven-game series.
Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty ImagesHouston Rockets’ Durant-Powered Leap
The biggest headline of the offseason: Kevin Durant joining the Rockets. His scoring and leadership instantly elevate a young roster featuring Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., and Amen Thompson.
Durant’s presence means Houston is no longer a rebuilding project—they’re a legitimate playoff threat. If their chemistry clicks, the Rockets could shock the West.
Atlanta Hawks’ New Look with Porzingis
Atlanta shook up its roster this offseason by acquiring Kristaps Porzingis, giving Trae Young a versatile frontcourt partner who can stretch the floor and anchor the defence.
Porzingis adds a scoring dimension inside and out while helping cover defensive gaps the Hawks have struggled with in past playoff runs.
With Young running the offence and Porzingis providing balance, Atlanta’s ceiling is suddenly much higher. If they find consistency under Quin Snyder and stay healthy, the Hawks could emerge as a serious Eastern Conference dark horse.
Surprise contenders are what keep the NBA unpredictable and compelling. Whether through superstar additions, maturing young cores, or veteran reinforcements, these five squads have the potential to flip the playoff picture in 2025–26.