Predicting the NBA's Best Defenses in 2026-27

What does an elite NBA defense look like in 2026? Wes Goldberg, Matt Moore and Haize break down the trends shaping modern defense and what last season’s best units can teach us about where the league is headed.

Are versatility and switchability still king? How important is rim protection? And with offenses getting more sophisticated, which defensive strategies are actually working? Then the guys make their predictions for which teams have the best chance to finish No. 1 in defensive rating this season.

Finally, it’s back to the Rotation Lab for one of the NBA’s most fascinating young teams: the Washington Wizards. With Trae Young and Anthony Davis entering their first full season together and No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa joining the mix, how should Washington build its rotation — and can this group make a major leap?

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