The 2025-26 NBA season is at its midway point, and teams are gearing up for the second half. With just two weeks to go before the trade deadline, the landscape of the league could soon shift as teams ponder major moves. The Oklahoma City Thunder lead the charge, while the Detroit Pistons dominate the Eastern Conference. As the playoff race intensifies, we take a look at the biggest questions facing each team.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2025-26 Record: 36-8
Upcoming Games: @ MIL (Jan. 21), vs. IND (Jan. 23), vs. TOR (Jan. 25), vs. NO (Jan. 27)
Big Question: Will Jalen Williams find his rhythm?
Oklahoma City’s standout player, Jalen Williams, will miss at least two weeks due to a hamstring injury. It’s been a tough season for Williams, who has battled wrist issues and struggled to regain his form. With him sidelined, the Thunder will continue to lean heavily on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the impressive development of Chet Holmgren, who is quickly becoming a potential All-Star.
2. Detroit Pistons
2025-26 Record: 31-10
Upcoming Games: @ NO (Jan. 21), vs. HOU (Jan. 23), vs. SAC (Jan. 25), @ DEN (Jan. 27)
Big Question: How far can their defense take them?
The Pistons have exceeded expectations this season, largely due to their suffocating defense. They are allowing just 99.5 points per 100 possessions, the best in the league. Detroit’s ability to lock down opponents, especially in clutch moments, has allowed them to maintain their spot atop the Eastern Conference. If they can keep this up, they’ll be a serious contender.
3. San Antonio Spurs
2025-26 Record: 30-14
Upcoming Games: @ UTAH (Jan. 22), vs. NO (Jan. 25)
Big Question: Can San Antonio keep up the momentum?
After a three-game win streak, the Spurs are showing signs of sustained success, thanks to the brilliance of rookie Victor Wembanyama. The team’s growth, however, will be tested as they face tougher opponents. With the All-Star break around the corner, the Spurs will need to balance their mental and physical preparation to keep their momentum going into the second half of the season.
4. Denver Nuggets
2025-26 Record: 29-15
Upcoming Games: @ WAS (Jan. 22), @ MIL (Jan. 23), @ MEM (Jan. 25), vs. DET (Jan. 27)
Big Question: What does Peyton Watson’s rise mean for Denver?
With Peyton Watson stepping up in Nikola Jokic’s absence, the Nuggets are facing a dilemma. Watson has been superb in his increased role, averaging 21.9 points per game. The question is whether Denver can continue to develop him as a key contributor when Jokic returns, and how they might retain Watson if his performance drives up his contract value. The Nuggets may be forced to make tough roster decisions to prioritize Watson’s future in Denver.
5. Boston Celtics
2025-26 Record: 26-16
Upcoming Games: vs. IND (Jan. 21), @ BKN (Jan. 23), @ CHI (Jan. 24), vs. POR (Jan. 26)
Big Question: Can the Celtics survive without Jayson Tatum?
Jayson Tatum’s absence has raised questions about the Celtics’ ability to maintain their spot near the top of the Eastern Conference. Despite his injury, Boston remains on pace for 50 wins, with strong performances from the rest of the roster. If Tatum can return to form, the Celtics would become heavy favorites in the East, especially with their depth and the high-level play from their supporting cast.
