Power Ranking all 30 NBA teams by size of championship window

Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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NBA Power Rankings
NBA Power Rankings, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Oklahoma City Thunder

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vaulted onto first-team All-NBA last season, and the Thunder are arguably the deepest young team in the league. OKC is looking to make their first playoff appearance with this core and could quickly be in the title picture with the assets to acquire a superstar plus the depth to withstand the trade.

Verdict: Just starting to open and could be wide through the rest of the 2020s.

8. Memphis Grizzlies

The Grizzlies have made three straight playoff appearances, but have won just one series. Ja Morant is a superstar but must serve a 25-game suspension to open the season. Can Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. keep them in contention? Memphis has plenty of young talent and feels on the verge of taking that next step.

Verdict: Partially open, but there are questions.

7. Miami Heat

The Heat were in the NBA Finals last season. Jimmy Butler is a superstar who has helped them win the Eastern Conference twice since 2020. Miami is rarely the favorite and eager to add more talent. Still, do not count them out. Bam Adebayo plays a key role, but how much does losing Max Strus and Gabe Vincent hurt?

Verdict: Partially open, but may not have enough to win it.