The 2025-26 NBA season is now at its halfway point, and with the trade deadline just two weeks away, questions loom over which star player might be on the move next. As the season heats up, here’s a look at the biggest questions facing each team as they prepare for the stretch run.
Note: Team rankings are based on the opinions of ESPN’s panel of experts including Anthony Slater, Dave McMenamin, Jamal Collier, Kevin Pelton, Michael C. Wright, Bobby Marks, Tim Bontemps, Tim MacMahon, Vincent Goodwill, and Zach Kram.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2025-26 record: 36-8
Biggest Question: Does Jalen Williams get his season on track?
The Thunder, sitting atop the league, received bad news this week with Jalen Williams sidelined due to a hamstring strain. After struggling with a wrist injury earlier this season, Williams’ absence adds another challenge for Oklahoma City. The team will continue to lean on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, their solid depth, and the rising star that is Chet Holmgren, who looks to be on track to become the Thunder’s second All-Star. — Slater
2. Detroit Pistons
2025-26 record: 31-10
Biggest Question: Just how good can their defense get?
The Pistons have silenced doubters by maintaining their position as the top team in the East, thanks to their suffocating defense. They’ve allowed just 99.5 points per 100 possessions this month, the best mark in the league. With the team continuing to perform well in clutch situations, Detroit’s defense remains their foundation for potential playoff success. — Goodwill
3. San Antonio Spurs
2025-26 record: 30-14
Biggest Question: Can San Antonio maintain its momentum?
The Spurs, led by the exceptional Victor Wembanyama, have been on a roll, winning three straight. Their ability to handle success has been impressive, especially as they navigate the physical and mental challenges of the season. Despite injuries and the pressure of being a target for other teams, San Antonio remains in the thick of the playoff race. — Wright
4. Denver Nuggets
2025-26 record: 29-15
Biggest Question: What is Peyton Watson’s future in Denver?
Peyton Watson’s recent breakout has raised important questions about the Nuggets’ future roster. With Nikola Jokic out, Watson has stepped up, averaging 21.9 points and 6 rebounds per game. The Nuggets face decisions about how to integrate Watson when Jokic returns and whether they can keep him on a long-term deal. — MacMahon
5. Boston Celtics
2025-26 record: 26-16
Biggest Question: Can the Celtics rely on Jayson Tatum to return?
With Jayson Tatum recovering from injury, Boston’s playoff hopes rest on his return. Despite his absence, the Celtics are on pace for 50 wins, but the big question remains: Can Tatum return to his usual elite level and push Boston back to the Finals? If he can, they could very well become the favorites in the East. — Bontemps
6. Minnesota Timberwolves
2025-26 record: 27-17
Biggest Question: Can Minnesota add guard help by the trade deadline?
The Timberwolves are in desperate need of a guard upgrade. With Mike Conley and Rob Dillingham not providing long-term solutions, Minnesota is expected to make a move for a guard to strengthen their playoff push. — Bontemps
7. Houston Rockets
2025-26 record: 26-15
Biggest Question: Can the supporting cast around Kevin Durant gain consistency?
The Rockets’ defense-first approach under Coach Ime Udoka has been effective, but the question remains whether their supporting cast can step up. With Fred VanVleet recovering from an ACL tear, young players like Amen Thompson and Jabari Smith Jr. will need to make significant strides to help Durant and Sengun lead the team. — Wright
8. New York Knicks
2025-26 record: 25-18
Biggest Question: Is the recent slide a blip or a sign of things to come?
The Knicks’ recent struggles have raised concerns about their long-term direction. With defensive issues and internal pressure mounting, the team’s recent performances have not lived up to expectations. With the trade deadline looming, New York needs to bounce back quickly to avoid falling further behind in the playoff race. — Goodwill
9. Phoenix Suns
2025-26 record: 27-17
Biggest Question: How will Jalen Green be integrated into their success?
With Jalen Green returning from a hamstring injury, the Suns are working to integrate him into their rotation without disrupting the flow that’s fueled their recent success. While Green is a dynamic scorer, the challenge will be to fit him seamlessly into an already well-performing lineup. — McMenamin
10. Los Angeles Lakers
2025-26 record: 26-16
Biggest Question: Will they be able to significantly upgrade around the trade deadline?
The Lakers have the assets to make a move at the deadline, including expiring contracts and draft picks. The big question is whether they can acquire a two-way wing to solidify their title contention hopes. With Austin Reaves eventually returning, the roster could be improved even further with the right additions. — McMenamin
11. Golden State Warriors
2025-26 record: 25-20
