Overview

• NBA general managers gave the Thunder 80% of the vote to win the 2026 NBA Finals, with the Cavaliers and Nuggets at 7% each and the Rockets and Knicks also receiving votes.
• Nikola Jokić was the clear MVP favorite at 67% and topped categories including best center, passer, international player, basketball IQ, and the player who forces the most adjustments.
• Victor Wembanyama was the top choice to build a franchise around at 83% and was voted the league’s best defender, reinforcing expectations of a major leap.
• No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg was the near-unanimous Rookie of the Year pick with 97%, also leading the question on which rookie will be best in five years.
• Houston drew notable attention, with Amen Thompson named most likely to have a breakout season and the most athletic and versatile defender, while Kevin Durant was viewed as the most impactful offseason acquisition at 73%.