ESPN Ranks Portland Trail Blazers 18th Despite Key Player Additions

With about three months remaining until the 2026/27 NBA season, ESPN released its latest power rankings reflecting current team strengths and expectations. Despite widespread anticipation in the U.S. that the Portland Trail Blazers would significantly improve due to Damian Lillard's return and the addition of Ja Morant, ESPN placed Portland only 18th. This ranking suggests skepticism about the team led by Deni Avdija.

The full ESPN power rankings list Oklahoma City Thunder at number one, followed by the San Antonio Spurs, New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, and Philadelphia 76ers in the top five. Notably, the Brooklyn Nets, featuring Ben Sharf and Danny Wolf, ranked 28th, just above the Sacramento Kings at 30th, who surpassed the Nets due to their young roster and promising opportunities for Emmanuel Sharp.

The Miami Heat, despite acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo, remain outside the top ten but could rise if LeBron James returns to South Beach. The rankings highlight the dynamic shifts expected in the league, especially with LeBron's next team decision influencing the competitive landscape.

Overall, while teams like Oklahoma City and San Antonio lead as expected, the rankings reveal cautious optimism about Portland's prospects and underline the evolving nature of NBA power dynamics ahead of the new season.