These are the 10 NBA teams most likely to advance to the finals and win it in 2025:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland still possesses the NBA’s best record. They’re gearing up for their playoff run, and a healthy roster can lead this team to not only the NBA Finals but also a championship.
2. Oklahoma City Thunder
It’s hard to pick a more dominant team, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has led the Thunder throughout the season. They’ve been the top team in the Western Conference, and this can lead them to the Finals as well as a championship.
3. Boston Celtics
The veteran squad has proven they will be a top team in the playoffs. Their veteran presence could ultimately see them repeat as NBA champions. They are seemingly a lock to play in the Eastern Conference finals.
4. Houston Rockets
Houston looks ready for the playoffs. Tough defense can lead them as far as an NBA championship. How they match up in a playoff series against teams like the Thunder, Warriors, and Lakers will determine whether they have an early playoff exit or not.
5. Golden State Warriors
Jimmy Butler continues to right the ship on Golden State’s season. They are on a heater currently, and if they continue this hot play, we could see them reach the Finals and win another championship.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves
Minnesota has hit a hot stretch, and Anthony Edwards will be relied upon to lead them to a championship.
7. New York Knicks
The Knicks have had strong weeks as well as weeks where they’ve taken steps back. However, they will take their defense to another level when the playoffs start, and this could lead them to a championship.
8. Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis continues to dominate games and there has yet to be a player to stop him. Giannis can carry this team to the Finals and win another championship.
9. Denver Nuggets
A veteran team to fear come playoffs, Nikola Jokic will once again lead Denver and another championship is in his sights.
10. Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers must have a healthy LeBron James in the playoffs. If he’s healthy, they have a chance of winning the championship.
