PHILADELPHIA / PORTLAND — Two weeks into the 2026–27 NBA regular season, the league’s power dynamics have taken an unexpected turn. While pre-season narratives focused on championship contenders finding their footing, the Philadelphia 76ers in the East and the Portland Trail Blazers in the West have hijacked the headlines, surging to the top of their respective conferences with blistering starts.
76ers Ride Elite Defense to 8–1 Start
The new-look Philadelphia 76ers have lived up to summer expectations and then some, opening their campaign with an Eastern-leading 8–1 record propelled by a five-game winning streak.
Under head coach Nick Nurse, Philadelphia has established the league’s 2nd-ranked defense (allowing just 105.2 PPG), anchoring wins over the Knicks, Celtics, and Bulls. Point guard Tyrese Maxey has taken complete control of the offense, averaging 28.0 points and 5.4 assists per game while scoring 25+ points in every outing.
Offseason addition Jaylen Brown has fit seamlessly alongside Maxey, contributing 21.8 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, while LeBron James and Joel Embiid manage interior physical loads while maintaining elite production.
Trail Blazers Shock League with 6–1 Surge
Out West, the Portland Trail Blazers have provided the season’s biggest plot twist. Tipped by many for a rebuilding campaign, Portland has roared out of the gate with a 6–1 record, boasting the NBA’s #1 rated offense (121.9 PPG) and a league-leading +11.2 Net Rating.
Forward Deni Avdija has emerged as Portland’s primary engine, leading the squad with 23.4 points, 6.4 assists, and 6.3 rebounds per game.
Damian Lillard provides steady backcourt firepower (20.1 PPG), while Toumani Camara‘s sharp perimeter shooting (47.1% 3PT) stretches opposing defenses. Portland’s early dominance includes impressive road victories over the Suns, Kings, Lakers, Jazz, and Nuggets.
