As I look at the current NBA landscape, I can’t help but draw parallels to the narrative chaos described in that Mortal Kombat 1 ending—what once felt predictable has been thrown into beautiful disarray. Just when we thought we knew which teams would dominate, the league has reshuffled itself in fascinating ways. I’ve been covering the NBA for over a decade, and this season feels different. The usual suspects are still there, but new contenders have emerged, and the championship odds reflect that volatility. It’s like watching a well-crafted story take an unexpected turn—you’re not quite sure where it’s headed, but you can’t look away.
Let’s start with the Denver Nuggets. As defending champions, they’ve retained their core, and Nikola Jokić is still playing at an MVP level. In my view, their chemistry and playoff experience give them a significant edge. I’d put their championship odds at around 22%, slightly higher than most models suggest, simply because they know how to win when it matters. Then there are the Boston Celtics. They made key roster moves in the offseason, adding Kristaps Porziņģis, and their depth is staggering. Statistically, they’re projected to win about 58 games this season, and I think they’ll exceed that. Their odds, in my estimation, sit at roughly 20%, though their playoff resilience remains a question mark. I’ve always been skeptical of regular-season dominance translating to titles, but this Celtics team feels different.
Out West, the Phoenix Suns can’t be ignored. With Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, their offensive firepower is absurd. But here’s where I draw a comparison to the Mario Party franchise’s recent struggles—sometimes, stacking talent doesn’t guarantee success. The Suns remind me of Super Mario Party leaning too heavily on the Ally system; it’s flashy, but will it hold up under pressure? I’d give them a 15% shot, though their defense worries me. On the other hand, the Golden State Warriors, much like Mario Party Superstars, are relying on a "greatest hits" approach. Steph Curry is still incredible, but their supporting cast has shown cracks. I’ve watched them closely, and while I love their legacy, I’d cap their odds at 12%. They need everything to click perfectly.
Then there are the dark horses. The Milwaukee Bucks, with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, should be higher in conversations, but their coaching change mid-season has introduced uncertainty. It’s that "trepidation and unease" Mortal Kombat vibe—you’re excited but nervous. I’d slot them at 18%, though if their defense tightens up, they could leapfrog everyone. The Los Angeles Lakers, always a talking point, have LeBron James, which automatically gives them a puncher’s chance. But as someone who’s seen LeBron carry teams, I think their odds are closer to 10% unless they make a move before the trade deadline. Anthony Davis’s health is the X-factor; if he plays 70+ games, add 5% to that number.
What about the younger teams? The Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves are intriguing. The Thunder, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, are like that promising story suddenly thrown into chaos—they’re ahead of schedule, and I love their upside. I’d give them a 7% chance, which might seem low, but in a stacked West, that’s respectable. The Timberwolves, with their defensive identity, have a 9% shot in my book. Having covered their rise, I’m biased toward their grit, but they need more consistency in crunch time. And let’s not forget the LA Clippers, who, when healthy, can beat anyone. But "when healthy" is the key—I’ve learned to temper my expectations, so I’ll say 11%.
As the season unfolds, injuries, trades, and sheer luck will shift these odds. Personally, I’m rooting for teams that blend star power with cohesion, like the Nuggets, because in the end, basketball is about more than just talent. It’s about narrative, much like how Mario Party Jamboree tried to find a sweet spot but stumbled into quantity over quality. Too many teams are loading up on big names without building the right systems. So, while the odds suggest a top-heavy race, I wouldn’t be surprised if a dark horse makes a deep run. Whatever happens, this season promises to be one for the books, full of twists that keep us all on the edge of our seats.