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Seven NBA Teams to Watch Down the Stretch
From the Celtics' Tatum return to the Pistons' surprise run, these squads will captivate through the playoffs
Feb. 23, 2026 at 6:31am
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As the NBA season enters its final stretch, there are several teams that will be must-watch viewing. The Boston Celtics could get a huge boost if Jayson Tatum returns from injury, while the Detroit Pistons have been one of the league's biggest surprises. The Los Angeles Lakers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Charlotte Hornets, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Knicks also have compelling storylines to follow as the playoffs approach.
Why it matters
The race for playoff positioning in both conferences is heating up, with several teams jockeying for position. How these seven squads perform down the stretch could have major implications on the postseason picture and the future direction of their franchises.
The details
The Celtics are thriving behind Jaylen Brown's MVP-caliber play and strong team defense, but the potential return of Tatum could make them the most intriguing team to watch. The Lakers are trying to maximize their star power with LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and others to overcome their defensive woes. The Pistons have been one of the league's biggest surprises, led by Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren. The Cavaliers shook things up at the trade deadline by adding James Harden, hoping to get over the hump in the East. The Hornets have been on a tear lately and could make some noise in the play-in tournament. The young Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama, are making an unexpected push for a top seed in the West. And the Knicks are looking to validate their strong first half and make a deep playoff run.
- The Celtics entered the All-Star break with the second seed in the East.
- The Lakers are currently fifth in the Western Conference, 1.5 games behind the third-place Nuggets.
- The Pistons have a 5.5-game lead atop the Eastern Conference with less than 30 games remaining.
- The Cavaliers added James Harden at the trade deadline to pair with Donovan Mitchell.
- The Hornets have gone 12-3 in their last 15 games heading into the All-Star break.
The players
Jaylen Brown
A Celtics guard playing at an MVP level this season.
Jayson Tatum
The Celtics' star forward who is recovering from an Achilles injury and may return this season.
Cade Cunningham
The Pistons' young star guard who has led their surprising rise to the top of the Eastern Conference.
Jalen Duren
The Pistons' breakout rookie center who made the All-Star team.
LeBron James
The Lakers' superstar forward who is still producing at a high level.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
