The Athletic polled its NBA writers for bold 2025-26 forecasts, unveiling one eyebrow-raising pick for every team as the season begins. Highlights include Atlanta breaking into a top-10 defense, Derrick White making his first All-Star team, and Brooklyn landing a top-four draft pick. Predictions stretch from Denver winning the West and Golden State reaching at least the conference finals to Victor Wembanyama cracking the MVP top three. Other swings: Cade Cunningham finishing top three in MVP voting, New York taking the East, Minnesota winning it all, and several breakout or comeback bets across the league.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.