Celtics - Nuggets - Lakers. I think one of this trio will be the champion of this year.
Who knows, it might be not on that trio. The Thunders are composed of young talented players and they play very well. At this point, they're top on the West.
Topping the trio that you've said.
But there is also a common belief that not every team that's on the top becomes the champ. And, don't forget about the Warriors, they could also be in it.
Yes, there was a time when Phoenix was the league leading in NBA, with Booker and CP3 and then went all into the finals. Only to lost to the Giannis led Bucks who are more hungrier that time. Last year it was OKC and the Nuggets who are on top, but Luka did a magic run on that playoff, then going into the finals against Boston.
I think the Cavs too might be a good contender in the East, them and the Celtics.
For the West, OKC, Nuggets and the Lakers. I think the Lakers is the dark horse and not the Warriors. Warriors might go to the playoff, but I don't think they could have run just like during their championship days.