"But one of the biggest questions in the NBA is whether that parity will continue or if it was an interruption between dynasties. Fresh off their first title, the Oklahoma City Thunder are the clear favorites to repeat, with 80% of the league's general managers choosing them to win it all again in 2025-26. With a deep, star-studded roster constructed by general manager Sam Presti, the Thunder could be on the precipice of a dynasty."
"But nothing in the NBA is guaranteed. Last season, 83% of the league's GMs picked the Boston Celtics to repeat as champions, but they lost in the second round, when Jayson Tatum suffered a torn Achilles tendon. So, it's possible that Oklahoma City already peaked with its ultimately successful -- but occasionally bumpy -- road to the title a year ago. But it's also possible that Oklahoma City will peak this season. Or the Thunder's peak is still years away, as a young roster continues to grow."
The NBA has experienced unprecedented parity, producing seven different champions over seven seasons and no defending champion reaching the conference finals since Kevin Durant's time with Golden State. The Oklahoma City Thunder are widely favored to repeat, with 80% of general managers predicting another title. The Thunder's roster, constructed by general manager Sam Presti, is deep and star-studded and could form the basis of a dynasty. Historical patterns and unpredictable factors such as injuries and roster youth create uncertainty about whether the Thunder already peaked, are peaking now, or will peak in the future.
Read at ESPN.com
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