The new-age NBA is unpredictable, full of parity, where a new contender emerges yearly. This season, we saw the Spurs go from a team on the fringe of the playoffs to playing in their first NBA Finals since 2014. Every year, a franchise makes that leap and establishes itself as a legitimate contender. There are plenty of teams that are one move away. Whether the missing piece is a facilitating guard, a lengthy defender, or a bench leader, there are three teams that are one move away from becoming legitimate title contenders.
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Orlando Magic
Apr 29, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) walks off the court after the game against the Detroit Pistons during game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
The Magic have built one of the league’s most exciting young cores around Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. They have a strong defense and scoring talent to compete with anyone in a weak Eastern Conference. Their issue is that their offense can become stagnant, especially when Paolo comes off the court.
A move for LaMelo Ball could change everything. Ball is one of the league’s best young playmakers and would give Orlando a true facilitator that fits their timeline. The Magic already have a top defense; adding a lengthy, elite floor general could put them in championship conversations.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves have spent the last several seasons proving they’re one of the best in the Western Conference. Anthony Edwards has developed into a superstar, while Minnesota’s defense remains one of the toughest in the league.
What the Timberwolves lack is an elite point guard who can run the offense and take pressure off Edwards. A player like Ja Morant would fit perfectly. Morant’s ability to put pressure on the rim, create for teammates, and take control of games would give Minnesota another offensive weapon to pair alongside Edwards. The combination could form a dangerous backcourt for years to come, while pushing the Timberwolves into a true contender.
Houston Rockets
Apr 10, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts after a free throw attempt during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Unlike Orlando and Minnesota, Houston may not need to do much. The Rockets already possess one of the league’s deepest rosters, led by Kevin Durant, Alperen Şengün, and a talented young core. Their biggest move may simply be re-signing Fred VanVleet, who missed the entire season due to injury.
VanVleet’s experience, along with his scoring and playmaking ability, would provide stability to a roster that continues to improve each year. As Houston’s young core develops alongside Durant, the Rockets may have the pieces needed for a championship.
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