NBA Preview: Which Teams Face the Most Pressure This Season?

The NBA’s regular season begins this week, and not a moment too soon. After months of anticipation, trade rumors, and free agency frenzy, it’s finally time to see whether all those big offseason moves and promises of “internal development” justify teams’ high hopes.

For some franchises, the coming 82 games represent a referendum on their entire offseason strategy. We gathered a group of NBA experts to discuss which teams face the most pressure to perform this season.

The Oklahoma City Thunder: Can They Take the Next Step?

The Thunder have been one of the league’s most fascinating young teams, but this season brings new expectations. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander entering his prime and the development of Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City is no longer just a promising upstart.

"Last year was about proving they could compete," said longtime NBA analyst Mike Fisher. "This year is about proving they can win a championship. The window is open now, and they know it."

The New York Knicks: High Stakes in the Big Apple

No team faces more pressure than the New York Knicks. After a dramatic offseason that brought in superstars, the expectations in Madison Square Garden have reached a fever pitch.

"When you make the moves they made, you’re not just playing for a playoff spot—you’re playing for a title," said sports journalist Sarah Jenkins. "Anything less than a deep playoff run will be seen as a disappointment."

Milwaukee Bucks: Redemption in the Midwest

The Bucks enter the season with a chip on their shoulder. After last year’s early playoff exit, Milwaukee made several key additions to bolster their championship pedigree.

"They’re not just trying to win—they’re trying to prove last year was an anomaly," said former NBA player turned analyst Charles Smith. "The pressure isn’t just from outside; it’s from within that locker room."

The Waiting Game in Other Markets

While these three teams grab the headlines, other franchises face different kinds of pressure. Some young teams need to show tangible growth, while others hoping to land top draft picks must balance competitiveness with tanking strategies.

What do you think? Which team faces the most pressure this season? Sound off in the comments below, and be sure to check out the original reporting from The Athletic for more in-depth analysis.