When we talk about the best NBA teams of all time, it’s not just about the star players or the memorable moments but also about the data that back up their greatness. Take the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls, for instance. They finished the regular season with a staggering 72-10 record. That season, Michael Jordan averaged 30.4 points per game and led the league in scoring. The Bulls also had a defensive rating of 101.8, making them one of the most well-rounded teams ever.
The ‘80s Lakers, also known as Showtime Lakers, were exceptional. With Earvin “Magic” Johnson at the helm, they won five NBA titles during the decade. Magic was not only a playmaker but also an extraordinary rebounder for a point guard, averaging 11.2 assists per game during his career. This team popularized the fast-break style, combining speed, accuracy, and showmanship. Their ability to push the ball up the court at breakneck speeds left opponents scrambling to keep up.
The Boston Celtics of the 1960s are another legendary squad. Under the leadership of Bill Russell, they clinched 11 championships in 13 seasons. That’s an unheard-of 84.6% championship win rate. Russell himself was a defensive powerhouse, averaging 22.5 rebounds per game in his career. This team’s prowess lay not only in their offensive capabilities but also in their suffocating defense, which often left their opponents gasping for relief.
We can’t forget the 2016-2017 Golden State Warriors, a team that revolutionized the concept of the three-point shot. Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Kevin Durant led this superteam to a 67-15 regular season record and a playoff run where they went 16-1. Curry, the two-time MVP, averaged 25.3 points per game, with a three-point shooting percentage of 41.1%. This team introduced a small-ball lineup that emphasized spacing and ball movement, which changed the way the game is played today.
Another hallmark team is the 2000-2002 Los Angeles Lakers under the leadership of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. They achieved a three-peat, winning three consecutive championships. Shaq’s dominance in the paint was unparalleled, and he averaged an astonishing 30.7 points per game during the 2000 playoffs. Bryant complemented O’Neal perfectly with his scoring and defensive acumen, putting up 29.4 points per game in the 2001 playoffs.
The San Antonio Spurs, orchestrated by Gregg Popovich, created a dynasty with a system rooted in selflessness and team play. Tim Duncan, “The Big Fundamental,” was the cornerstone, contributing both offensively and defensively. Duncan’s ability to read the game allowed him to average 2.2 blocks per game over his career, providing a solid backbone for the Spurs. Their 2013-2014 season stands out, where they finished with a 62-20 record and dismantled the Miami Heat 4-1 in the Finals, showcasing basketball in its purest form.
Let’s also acknowledge the 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers, who set a then-record 69-13 regular season. Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West were the stars of this team. Chamberlain’s dominance in the center position was incredible, as he averaged 19.2 rebounds per game. West, known as “Mr. Clutch,” was indispensable, contributing crucial points and assists, making the Lakers an all-time great team.
Considering all these legendary teams, it’s fascinating to see how the game has evolved over time. The arena plus for these discussions broadens as more teams carve out their place in NBA history. While it’s impossible to definitively rank the best NBA teams due to the different eras and styles of play, the teams mentioned have undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the game. From the defensive stalwarts of the ’60s Celtics to the three-point revolution of the modern Warriors, each era brings something unique to the table.