The NBA regular season has reached the point where playoff contenders are separating from rebuilding squads. Front offices made key moves at the trade deadline, and now the question is who has the balance of star power, depth, and defense to survive a seven-game series.

Eastern Conference Favorites

• Boston Celtics: With Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the way, plus strong defensive identity, Boston looks like the most complete team in the East.
• Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo remains unstoppable inside. With the addition of Damian Lillard, Milwaukee has improved its half-court offense.
• Philadelphia 76ers: Joel Embiid’s dominance in the paint makes Philly a tough out, but health remains the biggest question mark.

Western Conference Favorites

• Denver Nuggets: The defending champions, led by Nikola Jokić, continue to look steady and efficient on both ends.
• Phoenix Suns: Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal form one of the league’s most dangerous offensive trios—if they stay healthy.
• Golden State Warriors: Experience, spacing, and Steph Curry’s leadership keep them relevant, though depth is thinner than past championship runs.

X-Factors

• Injuries: A lingering injury to a superstar can derail an entire run.
• Bench Depth: Rotations shorten in the playoffs, but second-unit production can swing a game.
• Matchups: Even strong teams may fall early if paired against a bad stylistic matchup in Round 1.