Future NBA Power Rankings: Which teams have brightest future in three years, and which will be at the bottom

The NBA’s outlook can flip quickly, and this projection looks three seasons ahead. Using expected star roles and long-term contracts, along with who appears to be “burning the candle” now versus building with young talent, cap space and draft picks for the 2029-30 season, a future ranking is outlined for all 30 teams. The writeup’s early entries start with the Spurs, projecting Victor Wembanyama (26) as the league’s top player and listing players-in and players-out assumptions, including De’Aaron Fox and Tobias Harris as potential exits. San Antonio’s asset depth could help trade for roster balance around Wembanyama. Next, the Thunder are rated among the elite, anchored by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren.