Every NBA season brings a few teams that outperform expectations. Whether a young roster finally puts everything together or an established team gets a major boost from an offseason move, the standings always deliver a few surprises.
The 2026-27 season should be no different. From a Portland Trail Blazers team with plenty of star power to a Boston Celtics team looking to remain near the top of the Eastern Conference, here are four teams that could surprise this season.
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Portland Trail Blazers
Portland surprised many last season by reaching the play-in tournament behind Deni Avdija. Now, the Trail Blazers have added even more talent to a roster looking to take the next step.
The additions of Ja Morant and the return of Damian Lillard give Portland plenty of star power. Donovan Clingan has also emerged as a top rebounder in the league, while Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson, Jeremy Sochan and Robert Williams provide depth.
Losing Shaedon Sharpe to a meniscus tear is a significant blow, but Portland still has enough talent to compete. If its new-look roster finds chemistry, the Trail Blazers could become a legitimate playoff threat in the Western Conference.
Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz have struggled over the past few seasons, but their young core could finally turn things around. Utah selected Darryn Peterson with the second overall pick, adding a cornerstone piece to an already talented roster.
Peterson joins a group featuring Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr., Ace Bailey and Keyonte George. Bryce Sensabaugh, Isaiah Collier and Kyle Filipowski also give Utah promising depth.
If Peterson makes an immediate impact, the Jazz could take a significant step forward and compete for a playoff spot.
Washington Wizards
Washington has spent the past few seasons near the bottom of the standings, but things could finally change. The Wizards landed AJ Dybantsa with the first overall pick and expect Trae Young and Anthony Davis to return from injury.
Dybantsa joins a roster featuring promising young players such as Tre Johnson, Bub Carrington and Bilal Coulibaly. Veterans Khris Middleton and Deandre Ayton could also provide valuable experience.
If Washington stays healthy, the Wizards have enough young talent and veteran leadership to make a push for the Eastern Conference play-in tournament.
Boston Celtics
Boston is a potential regression candidate after trading Jaylen Brown for Paul George. George brings experience, but replacing Brown’s production will be difficult given George’s age and injury history.
However, Mitchell Robinson gives Boston a legitimate center they’ve been searching for, while Jayson Tatum’s return provides the star power needed to compete.
The Celtics have questions to answer, but if Tatum stays healthy and the roster builds chemistry, Boston could still finish in the top four of the Eastern Conference.
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