DENVER, CO – APRIL 4: Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets handles the ball against Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs on April 4, 2026 at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
The 2026 NBA playoffs are set to begin, showcasing a competitive landscape with several contenders. The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, aim for back-to-back championships despite injury concerns. The San Antonio Spurs and Denver Nuggets, featuring stars Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic, are also in the mix, while the Eastern Conference is highly competitive. As teams finalize their playoff positions, the anticipation for engaging matchups rises.