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<p id="caption-attachment-1799901" class="wp-caption-text">Anthony Edwards and Kevin Durant (now with the Rockets) aim to become the NBA's eighth different champion in as many years.</p>
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<p>In what has been a remarkable display of parity, the NBA has seen seven different champions from seven franchises over the last seven years. The latest addition to this list is the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nba.com/playoffs/2025/nba-finals">Oklahoma City Thunder</a>, who recently claimed a one-year title reign with the Larry O’Brien Trophy.</p>
<p>This trend reflects the longest sequence of one-time champions in NBA history. The previous significant stretches of varied victory included a six-championship run from 1975 to 1980 and a five-year span from 1954 to 1958. Historically, this kind of title distribution was the exception rather than the rule, with powerhouses like the Lakers and Celtics dominating the early decades.</p>
<p>Speaking to this trend, NBA commissioner Adam Silver noted the prior concentration of championships, where he joked about the league's top teams. Strategies designed to increase competition, such as the salary cap and drafts, have aimed to create a more level playing field. “Our intention was to allow for greater competitiveness throughout the league,” he stated, highlighting that fans universally desire to see their teams contend effectively.</p>
<p>As the possibility of this trend continuing emerges, 11 out of 16 playoff teams this year could have celebrated their first title victory. The Thunder’s recent success adds to this narrative but also signals that other teams, such as the Raptors and Lakers, must remain patient until 2027 to claim their championships.</p>
<h3><strong>1. Indiana Pacers</strong></h3>
<p>Had Tyrese Haliburton not sustained an Achilles injury, the Pacers might have been strong contenders next season. Despite this setback, the team's depth and resilience suggest they can make another playoff push, relying on talents like Andrew Nembhard and Obi Toppin to fill the void.</p>
<h3><strong>2. Cleveland Cavaliers</strong></h3>
<p>The Cavaliers have a unique advantage in the Eastern Conference, as they are not hampered by any star injuries. Their solid core, featuring leaders like Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, positions them to bounce back strongly after their early playoff exit last season.</p>
<h3><strong>3. Houston Rockets</strong></h3>
<p>Acquiring Kevin Durant signifies the Rockets' intent to end their waiting period for a title. Alongside a young and promising roster, they are now aiming to establish themselves as serious contenders, especially after a tough playoff showing against Golden State.</p>
<h3><strong>4. New York Knicks</strong></h3>
<p>The Knicks, fresh off a surprising run to the Eastern Conference finals, aim to maintain this momentum despite coaching changes. With key players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns excelling, their prospects for a successful season look bright.</p>
<h3><strong>5. Minnesota Timberwolves</strong></h3>
<p>Having ranked well on both offense and defense last season, the Timberwolves are positioned to make a significant playoff impact. Much hinges on Anthony Edwards’ potential emergence as a star and improving team dynamics on the court.</p>
<h3><strong>Longer shots</strong></h3>
<p><strong>LA Clippers:</strong> After a strong effort this past season, the Clippers will look to capitalize on their playoff experience to contend seriously in future tournaments.</p>
<p><strong>Detroit Pistons:</strong> Following a remarkable increase in victories last season, the Pistons aim to build on their success, driven by the potential of Cade Cunningham.</p>
<p><strong>Orlando Magic:</strong> Despite setbacks from injuries, the Magic are hopeful with new additions that could bolster their competitive edge next season.</p>
<p><em>Steve Aschburner has been covering the NBA since 1980. You can email him <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nba.com/news/mailto:[email protected]">here</a>, find his archive <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nba.com/writer/archive/steve-aschburner">here</a>, and follow him on X <a target="_blank" href="http://twitter.com/AschNBA">here</a>.</em></p>
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