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5 bold predictions for 2026 NBA Finals

The NBA Finals are officially set. The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs are set to meet with game one on Wednesday night. The Knicks easily cruised to the Eastern Conference crown after sweeping the Cavaliers. In the Western Conference, the Spurs were victorious over the Thunder in game seven. The two teams met three times during the regular season, with the Knicks winning two games. Here are bold predictions heading into the NBA Finals.

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New York Finds Success on Offensive Glass

The Knicks have ranked near the bottom of all playoff teams in offensive rebounding, but will see increased production in the NBA Finals. San Antonio has allowed nearly 12 offensive rebounds per game, while New York is averaging 9.2 offensive rebounds per game. New York will have plenty of second-chance opportunities, and the team must take advantage of the high number of offensive rebounds San Antonio allows.

Victor Wembanyama Sees Increased Minutes

Victor Wembanyama has shown his talent throughout the playoffs. He enters the NBA Finals averaging 23.2 PPG, 10.8 RPG, and 3.5 BPG. In 17 playoff games, the Spurs superstar is averaging 32.5 minutes per game. His usage will drastically increase against the Knicks. If San Antonio is to win the series, Victor Wembanyama needs to average 36-38 minutes per game. New York is allowing the fewest rebounds per game, and San Antonio must have its best rebounder on the court as much as possible.

The Knicks Force Turnovers

New York’s defense ranks near the top in steals during the playoffs. On the opposite end, San Antonio’s offense ranks in the top half in turnovers per game. The Knicks must take advantage of a Spurs offense that is no stranger to turning the ball over and turning forced turnovers into points. This becomes crucial in the late stages of games as New York wants nothing more than to enter the fourth quarter with leads.

San Antonio’s Perimeter Defense Will Be Tested

The Spurs perimeter defense stifled the Thunder during the final minutes of game seven. San Antonio must be ready to defend the three-point line throughout the NBA Finals as New York leads all playoff teams in three-point percentage, overall field goal percentage, and points per game. The last thing the Spurs want to do is turn the upcoming series into a three-point contest.

New York Wins in Six

New York had the edge during the regular season, and while the team carries success into the Finals, regular-season production goes out the window in the playoffs. Wednesday’s game one takes place in San Antonio. Even with home court on their side, the Spurs fall to the Knicks in a close game. New York gains momentum after winning game one, and this sets the tone for the series. Jalen Brunson carries the team throughout the series, winning Finals MVP and bringing the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy to New York.

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