**Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs lead early sentiment for reaching the 2026 Emirates NBA Cup final, driven by their elite regular-season projections and favorable group positioning ahead of group play starting October 30.** The Thunder enter as preseason favorites in West Group B, while the Spurs anchor West Group C with Victor Wembanyama’s impact; both benefit from strong depth and recent form. In the East, defending champion New York Knicks face a loaded Group B alongside the 76ers, Cavaliers, Heat, and Pacers, while Boston Celtics are favored in Group C. Key variables include group-stage results through late November, injury updates, and rotation management before quarterfinals on December 4-5 and the December 11 championship at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Western Conference depth and star availability remain central to advancement odds.