CBS Sports has released predictions for the final NBA regular season standings in both conferences, factoring in remaining schedules, recent trades, and team performances. The projections highlight tight races in the Western Conference and a competitive field in the East beyond the top spot. Oklahoma City Thunder and Detroit Pistons are forecasted to secure the No. 1 seeds in their respective conferences.
The NBA trade deadline has passed, setting the rosters for the stretch run of the 2026 regular season, with the All-Star break approaching and about two months remaining. CBS Sports' projections consider factors like remaining schedules, roster changes, recent form, tanking motivations, and tiebreakers to forecast the final 1-15 standings in each conference.
In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder hold a 3.5-game lead over the San Antonio Spurs, who in turn lead Houston by 3.5 games; both are expected to maintain those seeds. The Denver Nuggets are projected at No. 3 despite challenges, including Aaron Gordon's potential absence until mid-March, a tough schedule, and recent losses since Nikola Jokić's return—the analysis expresses confidence in Jokić's impact. Minnesota Timberwolves land at No. 4, bolstered by the addition of Ayo Dosunmu and Anthony Edwards' clutch play, despite a demanding schedule. Houston Rockets secure No. 5 with the easiest remaining slate but face consistency issues, particularly after losing Steven Adams' rebounding. Los Angeles Lakers edge Phoenix Suns for No. 6, with the Suns' tough schedule and a key Feb. 26 matchup influencing the tiebreaker.
Play-in spots go to Phoenix at 7, Golden State Warriors at 8, Portland Trail Blazers at 9, and Los Angeles Clippers at 10, the latter motivated by not owning their 2026 first-round pick and expecting Darius Garland's return. Lottery teams include Memphis Grizzlies at 11, Dallas Mavericks at 12, New Orleans Pelicans at 13 (no tanking incentive as they lack their pick), Utah Jazz at 14, and Sacramento Kings at 15.
In the East, Detroit Pistons clinch No. 1. Cleveland Cavaliers jump to No. 2 after acquiring James Harden as a replacement for injured Darius Garland, with many games against tanking teams. New York Knicks take 3, Boston Celtics 4, Philadelphia 76ers 5 (holding a division record edge over Toronto despite Paul George's 19-game absence), and Orlando Magic 6, aided by 13 games against tanking teams. Play-in: Toronto Raptors at 7, surging Charlotte Hornets at 8 (nine wins in last 10, two back of Miami), Miami Heat at 9, and Atlanta Hawks at 10. Lottery: Chicago Bulls at 11 (impacted by Nikola Vučević's loss), Milwaukee Bucks at 12 (seeking a high pick to retain Giannis Antetokounmpo), Brooklyn Nets at 13, Washington Wizards at 14 (throttling down to protect a pick owed to Knicks despite adding Anthony Davis and Trae Young), and Indiana Pacers at 15.
