NBA Teams That Could Make a Surprise Playoff run

Last Updated on marzo 23, 2026 2:01 pm by Erwin Noguera

As the 2025-2026 NBA season enters its final stretch, the playoff picture is starting to take shape. While top seeds are positioning themselves for home-court advantage, several teams are emerging as dangerous contenders capable of making a deep postseason run.

Established contenders like the Celtics and Nuggets bring consistency and experience, while rising teams like the Thunder are redefining expectations. At the same time, veteran-led squads like the Lakers and Bucks remain dangerous in any series.

Momentum, health, and efficiency metrics are now defining factors, and some teams are peaking at the perfect time.

Boston Celtics: Built for Another Deep Run

The Celtics remain one of the most complete teams in the league. Led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boston ranks among the top teams in both offensive and defensive efficiency.

They are averaging over 118 points per game while holding opponents under 110, a differential that highlights their two-way dominance. Additionally, their three-point shooting continues to be elite, consistently ranking in the top tier of the league.

Their playoff experience and roster depth make them one of the safest bets to reach the Conference Finals and potentially beyond.

Denver Nuggets: Championship Pedigree Matters

The defending champions continue to rely on the brilliance of Nikola Jokic, who is once again putting up MVP-level numbers. Averaging near a triple-double, Jokic anchors one of the most efficient offenses in the league.

Denver’s offensive rating remains among the top in the NBA, and its half-court execution is arguably the best in basketball. In the Playoffs, where pace slows down, this becomes a massive advantage.

If healthy, the Nuggets are a serious threat to come out of the Western Conference once again.

Milwaukee Bucks: Star Power and Urgency

With Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, the Bucks have one of the most dangerous duos in the league.

Milwaukee ranks near the top in scoring efficiency and free-throw attempts, reflecting its aggressive offensive style. Giannis continues to dominate inside, while Lillard provides elite perimeter scoring and late-game shot creation.

However, their playoff success will depend heavily on defensive consistency. If they can stabilize on that end, they have the talent to make a Finals run.

Oklahoma City Thunder: The Rising Power

One of the biggest surprises this season has been the emergence of the Thunder as a legitimate contender.

Led by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City has combined youth, athleticism, and efficiency. They rank among the top teams in net rating, driven by strong defense and fast-paced offense.

Their ability to force turnovers and convert in transition has made them one of the most difficult teams to prepare for.

The question remains experience, but their upside makes them a dangerous playoff opponent.

Los Angeles Lakers: Never Count Them Out

As long as LeBron James and Luka Doncic are healthy, the Lakers remain a threat.

Definitely, they have improved significantly, ranking among the better teams in points allowed in recent weeks. Doncic is averaging over 30 points per game while also leading the team in assists, making him the engine of one of the most dynamic offenses in the league. Meanwhile, LeBron continues to provide elite playmaking and leadership, even at this stage of his career.

In the frontcourt, the Lakers now rely on a more flexible rotation rather than a dominant interior presence like Anthony Davis. Players such as DeAndre Ayton are filling that gap by committee rather than star dominance.

This version of the Lakers is different and more dangerous offensively. Their playoff ceiling will depend on defensive consistency and depth, but with Doncic controlling tempo, they remain a serious threat.

New York Knicks: Defensive Identity and Grit

The Knicks have quietly built one of the most physical and defensively consistent teams in the league.

With Jalen Brunson leading the offense, New York ranks among the top teams in defensive rating and rebounding percentage. Their ability to control tempo and win physical games makes them well-suited for playoff basketball.

They may not be the flashiest team, but their structure and discipline give them a real chance to advance.

Key Factors that Will Define the Playoffs

Across all Contenders, a few trends stand out. Teams with top-10 net ratings historically perform best in the playoffs, and many of the teams listed here meet that criteria.

Health is another critical factor. Late-season injuries can completely shift the playoff landscape, especially for teams that rely heavily on star players.

Finally, experience still matters. While younger teams like Oklahoma City are rising fast, proven contenders like Denver and Boston often have the edge in high-pressure situations.