Eurohoops has released its initial Power Rankings for the 2026-27 EuroLeague season, presenting a snapshot of expectations based on pre-season performances.
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1. Panathinaikos leads the rankings, despite facing numerous pre-season injuries. With the highest budget in the league and a legendary coach, their aspirations for success are clear.
2. Olympiacos sits in the second spot. As defending champions, they retain most of their core while adding Jean Montero. However, their preparation is complicated by uncertainties surrounding their home arena, which may only be ready before the playoffs, forcing them to train and play at AEK's gym.
3. Real Madrid ranks third after winning the Super Cup under coach Pedro Martinez. The team is motivated following last season's final loss, but they currently trail Panathinaikos in early assessments.
4. Fenerbahce is traditionally a strong contender. While they possess great potential, it is challenging to justify placing them above the top three teams.
5. Dubai BC steps into the fifth position, aiming for at least a Final Four appearance after investing heavily to improve their roster. However, logistical challenges due to extensive travel could impact their performance.
6. Zalgiris is noted for its capacity to compete effectively with a standout player in Jonas Valanciunas, enhancing their playoff prospects despite a historically competitive league.
7. Hapoel Tel Aviv boasts a deep roster. They have made the playoffs last year but face challenges, including playing home games in Bulgaria.
8. Crvena Zvezda is poised for a playoff push, building on last year’s play-in experience and leveraging its home-court advantage in Belgrade.
9. Anadolu Efes begins anew under coach Pablo Laso, with Mike James as the key player, aiming for a playoff return.
10. Valencia is approached with caution despite roster changes, as their past performance has consistently exceeded expectations.
11. Barcelona, now facing stronger competition, may struggle to secure a playoff spot this season.
12. Maccabi Tel Aviv's playoff ambitions remain uncertain, particularly without the advantage of their home court.
13. Armani Milano has the tools for success on paper, yet past injuries have hindered their playoff appearances, leading to skepticism about their prospects.
14. Partizan seeks more consistency this season but faces fierce competition.
15. LDLC ASVEL, with Tony Parker's coaching debut, is anticipated to face challenges, lacking the anticipated top-tier roster at the season's outset.
16. Bayern Munich aims for sustainable growth with limited resources, led by coach Anton Gavel.
17. Paris Basketball, under Tiago Splitter, hopes to recreate past successes but needs more collective output from a roster that has undergone significant changes.
18. Besiktas may face difficulties adjusting to the EuroLeague level after previously competing in the EuroCup without over-committing financially.
19. Baskonia seeks to avoid finishing in the last spot while competing against stronger teams in the league.
20. Virtus Bologna, perceived to have the weakest roster, primarily aims to avoid being outmatched this season.