The 40-before-20 club for the 2025-2026 NBA season is officially set, and it's drawing attention for good reason. With the Boston Celtics' recent loss to the Denver Nuggets, only three teams have made the cut this year under the renowned Phil Jackson rule.
For those not in the know, Jackson, the legendary coach, emphasized that a championship-caliber team should secure 40 wins before hitting 20 losses. It's a benchmark that speaks to the consistency and resilience of top contenders, ensuring they don't exhaust themselves over the grueling 82-game season.
Historically, over 90 percent of NBA champions in the past 46 years have met this criterion. So, who are the elite squads this season?
We have the reigning champs, the Oklahoma City Thunder, continuing their dominance. The Detroit Pistons, leading the East, have emerged as a formidable force. And the San Antonio Spurs are on the rise, showcasing their potential.
While the 40-before-20 rule is a strong indicator of championship potential, it's not an absolute guarantee. Recent years have seen lower-seeded teams like the 2023 Miami Heat, 2024 Dallas Mavericks, and 2025 Indiana Pacers make deep playoff runs, even reaching the Finals. Though none clinched the title, their journeys remind us that the playoffs are unpredictable, and any team that makes it has a shot.
This season could be the one where an unexpected team breaks through. Let’s explore some squads that missed the 40-before-20 mark but are still in the hunt for the 2026 NBA title.
First up, the Denver Nuggets. With three-time MVP Nikola Jokić leading the charge, Denver remains a powerhouse.
They've assembled a stellar roster around Jokić, arguably the best he's had. Health has been their biggest hurdle, impacting their 40-before-20 status.
If they can stay healthy, Denver's potential is sky-high.
Then there’s the Boston Celtics. Despite a transitional year, they've remained near the top of the Eastern Conference.
With Jaylen Brown and Derrick White delivering strong performances, and Payton Pritchard stepping up, they've stayed competitive. If Jayson Tatum returns in time for the playoffs, Boston could very well claim their second title in three years.
Finally, the New York Knicks are making noise. Despite some defensive challenges with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks have won 12 of their last 16 games.
Their recent form suggests they are serious contenders. After coming close to the Finals last season, this might be their year to break through.
If this season is destined for an outlier to take the crown, don't be surprised if one of these teams rises to the occasion.