NBA Trade Deadline Bold Predictions: 5 contenders that don't need to engage in trades ft. Philadelphia 76ers

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#3 OKC Thunder

The OKC Thunder could keep their roster for the next couple of years and compete for NBA championships. They have the second-youngest roster and they are stacked in different positions.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Lu Dort and Josh Giddey form perhaps the best starting five in the West. GM Sam Presti could look for frontline depth but they’ll be happy to enter the playoffs with who he has in the lineup.

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#2 Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics arguably have the best starting five in the NBA. Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick White are the main reasons Boston is 33-10, the best record in the league.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla has been leaning on an eight-man rotation for most of the season. He could use an upgrade for one of the wing backups but he will be raring for the playoffs to start with his lineup.

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#1 Denver Nuggets

Like the Celtics, the Denver Nuggets have one of the most complete lineups in the NBA. They still have trouble every time reigning NBA Finals MVP Nikola Jokic sits down, but they are not overly concerned. The defending champs had the same issues before last season but managed to roll through their opponents on their way to the title.

Another shot-creator will be great for the team, especially when Jokic gets a breather. If they can’t get that, the Nuggets are primed to defend their championship with the names on their roster.