We’re currently in the quiet stretch of the NBA offseason, with little activity happening around the league.
Recently, the main focus was Jonathan Kuminga’s pending decision, and now he has agreed to a two-year contract worth $13 million with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
This signing completes the Timberwolves’ starting lineup, making them one of the strongest units in the NBA.
Although there’s still room for additional trades and signings before the season kicks off, here’s a look at what we consider the top five starting lineups heading into 2026-27.
The NBA’s Best Starting Fives for 2026-27
Naturally, some may debate the specific players chosen here, especially given the depth some teams have. However, these are the lineups we believe will take center stage in clutch moments and the postseason.
5. Oklahoma City Thunder
- PG: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
- SG: Cason Wallace
- SF: Jalen Williams
- PF: Chet Holmgren
- C: Isaiah Hartenstein
While placing the Thunder fifth might seem low given their top record over the past two seasons, their true strength lies in their wealth of talent beyond the starters. The starting five includes two-time MVP Gilgeous-Alexander and All-Star players Williams and Holmgren, forming a formidable group, but there are still units ahead that feel more threatening this year.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves
- PG: LaMelo Ball
- SG: Anthony Edwards
- SF: Jonathan Kuminga
- PF: Jaden McDaniels
- C: Rudy Gobert
The Timberwolves had an eventful offseason, trading Julius Randle and acquiring both LaMelo Ball and Kuminga. Rudy Gobert brings his reliable presence, while Edwards is on track for MVP-level performances. McDaniels showed he might be ready to make a breakout leap, proving himself a strong two-way player. With LaMelo and Edwards together, there’s optimism surrounding Minnesota’s future.
3. New York Knicks
- PG: Jalen Brunson
- SG: Josh Hart
- SF: OG Anunoby
- PF: Mikal Bridges
- C: Karl-Anthony Towns
Ranking the defending champions at third might seem tough, but it’s the highest spot we felt was suitable. The Knicks consistently deliver cohesive, well-rounded play with strong chemistry and remain serious contenders for another Finals appearance. However, two teams above them simply appear more intimidating this season.
2. San Antonio Spurs
- PG: De’Aaron Fox
- SG: Stephon Castle
- SF: Devin Vassell
- PF: Tobias Harris
- C: Victor Wembanyama
Entering his fourth NBA season, Victor Wembanyama has arguably become the league’s top player. Another offseason of improving his offensive game means opponents will fear matching up with the Spurs even more. With talented guards Fox and Castle and new frontcourt addition Tobias Harris, they reached the Finals last year and look poised to be even better. In the West, this is the premier starting five.
1. Philadelphia 76ers
- PG: Tyrese Maxey
- SG: VJ Edgecombe
- SF: Jaylen Brown
- PF: LeBron James
- C: Joel Embiid
This top spot may come as no surprise. The 76ers made significant moves during the summer by adding stars Jaylen Brown and LeBron James to their electric young backcourt of Maxey and Edgecombe. The main question remains whether Joel Embiid can stay healthy to unleash this lineup’s full potential. On paper, their star power surpasses every other team in the league, with five elite players capable of explosive scoring nights. While their defensive capabilities might slightly lag behind others on this list, the sheer talent here demands the number one ranking.
Let’s see how well they can mesh on the court.
Fan Take: This offseason shakeup highlights the NBA’s ever-evolving landscape, showing how strategic roster moves can redefine power dynamics. For fans, it sets up an exciting season teeming with fresh rivalries and star-studded matchups that could push the sport to new heights.
Source: nbaanalysis.net
