The NBA returns this week, with the Oklahoma City Thunder looking to defend their championship in a stacked Western Conference while there are two clear-cut contenders in the East hoping to take full advantage of two wounded heavyweights.

Here, groups every team into tiers — from the one team in a tier of their own to contenders, could-be contenders and much more.

IN A TIER OF THEIR OWN

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder enter the season as undeniable title favourites and unlike the teams that feature in the championship or bust category, there isn’t nearly as much pressure on OKC to defend its crown. Sure, the fact it is almost assumed that the Thunder will make the Western Conference Finals at minimum means there is level of pressure. But if Oklahoma City doesn’t make it back to the F

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