NBA Power Rankings: Players under the most pressure
Briefly

NBA Power Rankings: Players under the most pressure
"The 2026 NBA trade deadline (Thursday, 3 p.m. ET) is one day away, with a flurry of blockbuster deals already beginning, including James Harden's exit from the LA Clippers to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Darius Garland. While the league and fans wait for another blockbuster deal, the regular season carries on, and teams turn their attention toward the postseason."
"There aren't really any players on the Thunder who face much pressure before April, May and June when their title defense is put under the postseason microscope. They're proven. But Gilgeous-Alexander has a clear chance at his second regular-season MVP and to continue to pile up accolades as he builds his résumé as an all-timer. He's also the unquestioned on-court leader of the championship favorites, meaning it falls mostly on him to ensure his team is at its best when the playoffs tip."
The 2026 NBA trade deadline arrives amid early blockbuster moves, including James Harden's move from the LA Clippers to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Darius Garland. The regular season continues as teams pivot toward the postseason. The Charlotte Hornets have a seven-game winning streak behind Rookie of the Year candidate Kon Knueppel, while the Portland Trail Blazers have struggled recently. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander carries pressure to lead the Thunder and pursue a second regular-season MVP. Cade Cunningham bears heavy responsibility as Detroit's primary option, leading the league in assists (9.8 per game).
Read at ESPN.com
Unable to calculate read time
[
|
]