The King, the Kiwi and the title chase: NBA season preview

Jaxin Daniels • October 20th, 2026 6:27 pm

Kiwi big man Steven Adams will look to make a big impact for Houston, returning from injury | Photo: AP

ESPN’s Kane Pitman expects a more competitive Eastern Conference this NBA season, while identifying Oklahoma City and San Antonio as major contenders in the West.

Speaking to Sport Nation Afternoons host Mark Stafford, Pitman said several Eastern Conference teams could challenge near the top.

“The Knicks rightfully should be near the top of favouritism, but it does feel like there are more threats in the Eastern Conference than the West,” Pitman said.

LeBron James is one main who headed East in the off season and remains a key figure, with Pitman rating him among the NBA’s top players despite his age.

He said Philadelphia’s other stars could help spread the load during the regular season.

“He's still clearly, in my opinion, a top 20 player. And that might be a little conservative,” Pitman said.

“When you consider the fact that the man's in his early 40s, that's pretty remarkable.”

Pitman believes James could still be valuable in the playoffs if Philadelphia’s roster remains healthy.

In the West, he sees a possible showdown between Oklahoma City and San Antonio, with the Spurs capable of taking another step after reaching last season’s NBA Finals.

“They have the confidence, they have the skill set at such a young age that they can win a title,” Pitman said.

New Zealand fans will also be watching Steven Adams, with Pitman hoping the Kiwi can continue contributing for Houston after returning from injury.

“I hope that the Rockets or any team that he's on through the back of his career, hopefully still got a few years left, but can have playoff success,” he said.

Pitman called Adams a favourite for his interviews and media presence, as well as his comeback to the court.

The interview also covered the NBA’s growing international influence, with Pitman noting the rise of star players from around the world.

“Everyone is catching up to the US,” he said.

Listen to the full NBA season preview with Kane Pitman below: