The landscape of the NBA is shifting toward San Antonio, according to the league's general managers. In the latest annual survey released on Thursday, executives from across the association have identified the Spurs as the team to beat for the 2027 championship, capping off a remarkable rise following their 62-win campaign and surprise appearance in the NBA Finals last season.
The survey, which has been a staple of the league for 25 seasons, highlights the immense influence of
Spurs Dominance and League-Wide Expectations
While the Spurs are the favorites to lift the Larry O'Brien Trophy, the competition remains fierce. San Antonio received 50% of the votes to win the title, narrowly edging out the 2025 champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Other contenders mentioned by the league's decision-makers include the defending champion New York Knicks, who are projected to win the Eastern Conference, and the Philadelphia 76ers, who have significantly bolstered their roster with the additions of LeBron James and Jaylen Brown.
Wembanyama’s influence extends beyond his individual accolades. He was identified as the player who forces opposing coaches to make the most tactical adjustments, while also being recognized as the league's best international and most versatile player. However, the recognition for San Antonio was not limited to their star center. Dylan Harper, the No. 2 overall pick from the 2025 draft, was voted as the player most likely to have a breakthrough season, while veteran free-agent signing Tobias Harris was labeled the most underrated acquisition of the offseason. Collectively, the Spurs' young core—comprised of Wembanyama, Harper, and Stephon Castle—was voted the most promising in the NBA.
Elsewhere in the survey, the Philadelphia 76ers were credited with the best overall offseason moves, though the Miami Heat’s acquisition of Giannis Antetokounmpo was cited as the single move expected to make the biggest impact. The comprehensive survey covered 48 different questions, providing a detailed look at how the league's front offices view the current competitive hierarchy as the new season approaches.
