NBA Weekly Preview 1

Last Updated on October 20, 2025 11:07 am by Erwin Noguera

The wait is over. The NBA is back, and it opens week 1 with what could very well be a preview of the Western Conference Finals, as the Oklahoma City Thunder face off against the Houston Rockets.

But that’s not the only marquee matchup on opening night, as in Los Angeles, the Lakers will take on the Golden State Warriors.

On Wednesday, the New York Knicks will go up against the Cleveland Cavaliers, while the Boston Celtics will square off with the Philadelphia 76ers.

At Gambyl Exchange, you can explore all the predictions for the NBA, the final bets for this matchday, and the odds for each match.

NBA Week 1: Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Houston Rockets

The Oklahoma City Thunder enters the season as the reigning NBA champions, a status that comes with major expectations, especially since their roster remains virtually unchanged. Leading the way is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the league’s reigning MVP. The front office’s only significant move this offseason was to extend Shai with a maximum deal worth $285 million, securing their superstar for the long term.

Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets had a stellar offseason, pulling off a blockbuster move by acquiring Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns. Pairing one of the greatest players in NBA history with Alperen Şengün, who is entering his prime, along with the athleticism and defensive upside of Amen Thompson, gives Houston a roster overflowing with talent and potential. However, not everything is perfect, the team is dealing with a significant setback following Fred VanVleet’s injury, which leaves a hole at point guard. Their three-point shooting will also be an area to monitor as the season begins and trade options remain open.

Thunder vs. Rockets Betting Pick: Thunder

NBA Week 1: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors

The Los Angeles Lakers will start the season without LeBron James, who is currently sidelined with an injury. That means all the responsibility will fall on Luka Dončić, who is coming off a spectacular EuroBasket performance with Slovenia. This year, he’ll be joined by DeAndre Ayton, a player who, when motivated, could finally provide the inside presence the team has long been missing. For now, with LeBron out, the team’s second option will need to be Austin Reaves, who has shown steady growth over the past two seasons.

The Golden State Warriors continue to believe that another championship run with Stephen Curry is possible. However, the 37-year-old point guard is once again surrounded by a highly experienced core, including Jimmy Butler (36), Draymond Green (35), and Al Horford (39), who just arrived from the Boston Celtics. For this veteran squad, staying healthy will be key to determining their ceiling. For now, though, it’s all about proving they still have the fire and competitive edge to start strong.

Lakers vs. Warriors Betting Pick: Warriors

NBA Week 1: New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

The New York Knicks, following the expected decline of the Boston Celtics, are under pressure to contend for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Jalen Brunson remains a decisive floor general and is surrounded by excellent pieces like Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and new head coach Mike Brown. The team had some bad luck after signing an outstanding sixth man in Malcolm Brogdon, who decided to retire before the season began. OG Anunoby and Josh Hart could both miss the opening game due to injury concerns.

It’s now or never for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Due to salary cap constraints, this could be the last year the franchise fields such a talent-rich roster. Previous seasons ended in disappointment during key moments, but the team opted to run it back with nearly the same core, led by Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Darius Garland. They brought in Lonzo Ball to provide better game management off the bench, but lost Ty Jerome, who had been a vital sixth man for the team.

Knicks vs. Cavaliers Betting Pick: Knicks

NBA Week 1: Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers

The Boston Celtics will be without Jayson Tatum for much of the season, creating significant uncertainty about what this team can accomplish. Jaylen Brown has dealt with ongoing physical issues, and both Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis are no longer on the roster. Derrick White will need to take a major step forward, as will Payton Pritchard, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year. The post position will be a key area of improvement as the season progresses if Boston wants to stay competitive in the East.

The Philadelphia 76ers are coming off a disappointing season, but they hope that better health will help them return to the Playoffs this year. The main question mark continues to be the health of Joel Embiid, who has dealt with multiple injuries over the past two seasons. Paul George will have the opportunity to redeem himself with this franchise, while the continued growth of Tyrese Maxey could elevate him to the superstar level many expect.

Celtics vs. 76ers Betting Pick: 76ers