Introducing ESPN's Basketball Power Index for 2025-2026: Predictions for 23 NBA teams

ESPN has released its Basketball Power Index (BPI) predictions for the 2025-2026 NBA season. The BPI, a statistical model that forecasts team performance, projects the top six teams in each conference and the teams competing for play-in spots. In the Eastern Conference, the top six teams are expected to be the Milwaukee Bucks, Brooklyn Nets, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, and Toronto Raptors. In the Western Conference, the projected top teams are the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Dallas Mavericks. The article also highlights three teams with high-variance young prospects: the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, and Orlando Magic. These teams have the potential to exceed expectations or struggle, depending on the development of their young talent. The BPI predictions provide a statistical snapshot of the anticipated landscape of the NBA in the 2025-2026 season, offering a glimpse into the future of the league.