NBA Regular Season Nears End: Key Storylines to Watch in the Final Week

Playoff Picture Taking Shape

The 2025–26 NBA regular season is entering its final stretch, and the postseason is right around the corner. While several teams have already secured playoff spots, many crucial battles—especially for seeding and play-in positions—are still unresolved.

In the Western Conference, five teams have officially clinched playoff berths, with the Oklahoma City Thunder leading the way as division champions for the third straight year. They are aiming to become the league’s first repeat champions since 2018.

Over in the East, four teams have locked in playoff spots, but the race for positioning—and the final play-in places—remains wide open.

Eastern Conference: What’s Still at Stake?

Race Behind the Top Seed

The Detroit Pistons are set to finish as the No. 1 seed despite missing Cade Cunningham due to injury. However, the rest of the standings remain uncertain.

• Boston Celtics are close to securing the No. 2 spot
• New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers are battling for third and fourth
• Atlanta Hawks could influence both positions with key matchups

Meanwhile, the fight for the sixth seed is tight, with the Philadelphia 76ers and Toronto Raptors neck-and-neck.

East Play-In: A Potential Dark Horse?

The biggest question: can any play-in team make a deep run?

The Charlotte Hornets look like a dangerous contender. After a slow start, they’ve surged in the second half of the season and have picked up wins against top teams.

• LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller are healthy
• Rookie Kon Knueppel is emerging as a standout

If they carry this momentum into the postseason, they could trouble higher-seeded teams.

Western Conference: Battle for the Top Seed

Can the Spurs Catch the Thunder?

The race for No. 1 in the West is still alive. The San Antonio Spurs are in strong form, but the Oklahoma City Thunder hold a multi-game lead.

• The Spurs have been dominant in recent weeks
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has led OKC’s late-season push

The Denver Nuggets could play a decisive role, with crucial games against both contenders.

Mid-Table West: Seeding and Injuries

Teams ranked between third and sixth are still jockeying for position, and injuries could have a major impact.

The Los Angeles Lakers are dealing with key absences:

• Luka Dončić is sidelined
• Austin Reaves is also out

This raises questions about their ability to secure home-court advantage and regain rhythm before the playoffs.

West Play-In: Curry’s Return Adds Intrigue

The play-in tournament in the West is mostly set, but one factor could shake things up—the return of Stephen Curry.

The Golden State Warriors appear locked into the No. 10 spot, but Curry’s comeback could significantly boost their chances.

• Phoenix Suns are holding steady in seventh
• Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers are battling for eighth

A fully fit Curry could make the Warriors a serious threat despite their low seed.

Injuries: Which Star Is Most Crucial?

All eyes are on Cade Cunningham and his potential return.

Although the Pistons have performed well without him, his presence will be vital for any deep playoff run. His availability could significantly influence how far Detroit can go.

Lottery Teams: Strategic Losses and Draft Position

For teams out of playoff contention, the focus shifts to draft positioning.

Franchises like the Washington Wizards, Brooklyn Nets, and others are closely monitoring results to improve their lottery odds.

Every game matters, as even slight changes in standings can impact draft chances in a strong upcoming class.

Awards Race: Mostly Decided?

While some debates remain, most major awards appear close to settled.

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the leading MVP candidate
• Kon Knueppel is favored for Rookie of the Year
• Victor Wembanyama is expected to dominate Defensive Player of the Year voting

Other awards like Coach of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year also seem largely decided.

The 65-Game Rule: Final Hurdle

Several top players are racing to meet the NBA’s 65-game requirement for award eligibility:

• Nikola Jokić
• Kawhi Leonard
• Pascal Siakam

Each has limited games remaining to qualify.

Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards will miss out despite an impressive season due to not meeting the criteria.

Final Thoughts

With just days left in the regular season, the NBA landscape is filled with tension and anticipation. From playoff seeding battles to individual awards and draft positioning, every game carries weight.

As the league transitions into postseason mode, fans can expect high-intensity matchups and plenty of drama in the days ahead.