NBA’s Best Duos to Watch in the 2025-26 Season

By Edcel Panganiban June 29, 2025 14:18

The 2025-26 NBA season promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, with several dynamic duos poised to lead their teams deep into the playoffs and potentially to a championship. As teams adjust rosters and young stars continue to develop, these pairings stand out as the best combinations of skill, chemistry, and impact on both ends of the floor. Here’s a look at the NBA’s best duos to watch next season, backed by stats, expert opinions, and projections.

1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander & Josh Giddey – Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder’s backcourt duo of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey remains one of the most promising in the league. Gilgeous-Alexander, the frontrunner for the 2025 MVP, averaged 31.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 6.9 assists last season, showcasing his scoring and playmaking prowess. Giddey complements him perfectly with his elite court vision and rebounding ability, averaging 15.2 points, 9.7 assists, and 7.8 rebounds. Their chemistry and versatility make the Thunder the favorites to win the Western Conference and possibly the NBA title, according to fan predictions and expert analyses.

2. Giannis Antetokounmpo & Damian Lillard – Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis and Lillard form a potent offensive and defensive tandem. Giannis, a two-time MVP, continues to dominate inside with his athleticism and defensive presence, averaging 29.4 points and 11.7 rebounds last season. Lillard’s elite shooting and clutch scoring provide the Bucks with a lethal perimeter threat. This duo’s blend of inside-outside scoring and defensive versatility makes them a top contender in the East and a must-watch pairing.

3. Franz Wagner & Paolo Banchero – Orlando Magic

Orlando’s young wing duo of Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero is rapidly ascending. Both players showed significant growth in 2024-25, with Wagner averaging 21.3 points and 6.8 rebounds and Banchero posting 22.5 points and 7.2 rebounds. Their ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions has made them one of the league’s best wing duos, with the Magic poised to become a serious playoff threat if they add a complementary scorer.

4. Nikola Jokic & Jalen Brunson – Denver Nuggets

The reigning champions, Denver Nuggets, rely heavily on the synergy between Nikola Jokic and Jalen Brunson. Jokic, a perennial MVP candidate, averaged 27.1 points, 13.8 rebounds, and 8.4 assists last season, orchestrating the offense with unmatched skill. Brunson’s scoring and playmaking off the bench or as a starter provide the Nuggets with a reliable secondary option. This duo’s balance of inside dominance and perimeter scoring is a key reason Denver is favored to repeat as champions.

5. Kevin Durant & Alperen Sengun – Houston Rockets

Houston’s offseason moves have positioned Kevin Durant alongside rising star Alperen Sengun, creating a fascinating duo. Durant’s scoring ability and veteran leadership combined with Sengun’s all-around game 19.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists last season offer the Rockets a versatile inside-outside threat. With coach Ime Udoka’s defensive schemes, this duo could elevate Houston into serious contention if they address offensive consistency.

Honorable Mentions

De’Aaron Fox & Domantas Sabonis (Sacramento Kings): A dynamic guard-big combo with speed and playmaking.
Luka Doncic & Cooper Flagg (Dallas Mavericks): A blend of scoring and defensive versatility that could blossom into a top-tier duo.
Jayson Tatum & Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics): Despite injury concerns, this duo remains one of the most talented in the league.

The 2025-26 NBA season will be defined by the impact of its star duos. From the explosive backcourt of the Thunder to the veteran-led Bucks and the youthful Magic, these pairings offer a mix of experience, youth, and complementary skills. As teams vie for supremacy, these duos will be the focal points of their franchises’ success and the storylines that captivate fans all season long.

With the NBA landscape constantly shifting, keeping an eye on these duos provides a window into which teams have the best chance to compete for the Larry O’Brien Trophy in 2026.