When it comes to the greatest teams in NBA history, several rosters genuinely stand out. Let's kick things off with the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls. This team, led by Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and coach Phil Jackson, finished the regular season with an unprecedented 72-10 record. Their astounding winning percentage of .878 still sits among the best in the league's history. Jordan averaged 30.4 points that season, and with Pippen's all-around brilliance, they dominated both ends of the floor. This Bulls team fundamentally redefined greatness in the NBA.
Talking about dynasties, who can overlook the '80s Los Angeles Lakers? Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and coach Pat Riley formed a dominant trio that clinched five championships in the decade. The Lakers' fast-paced "Showtime" offense revolutionized the game by utilizing speed and flair. Magic's average of 11.2 assists per game in the 1986-87 season is still one of the highest in NBA history, serving as a testament to his playmaking prowess.
Shifting gears to the 2016-17 Golden State Warriors, this team ruled the NBA with an iron fist. With superstar talents like Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, the Warriors finished the regular season with a 67-15 record. Durant's efficiency can be quantified by his 54% shooting from the field and Curry's incredible 324 successful three-pointers. Their seamless ball movement and lethal three-point shooting garnered them the NBA Championship, losing only one game throughout the entire playoffs.
Think about the 2000-01 Los Angeles Lakers, a force led by Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant. This dynamic duo led the Lakers to a 15-1 playoff record, one of the most dominant playoff runs in NBA history. Shaq, aged 28, posted averages of 30.4 points and 15.4 rebounds per game during the postseason, ensuring the Lakers' unrivaled supremacy. Bryant's killer instinct and O'Neal's sheer dominance made them nearly unstoppable.
We can't talk about great teams without mentioning the 1985-86 Boston Celtics. Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish formed a big three that took the Celtics to a 67-15 record and an NBA Championship. Bird, often heralded as one of the best forwards ever, averaged 25.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game that season. The Celtics' teamwork and strategic prowess under coach K.C. Jones set a benchmark for future generations.
Oh, let's not forget the San Antonio Spurs of the 2013-14 season. Powered by the trio of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili, they put on a clinic in the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat, winning the series in five games. The Spurs' "Beautiful Game" offense, highlighted by rapid ball movement and unselfish play, led them to a 62-20 regular-season record. The intricate passing and high basketball IQ made this team incredibly effective on the court.
Fast forward to the 2007-08 Boston Celtics, a team that marked the beginning of the modern "superteam" era. Headlined by Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen, the Celtics finished the regular season with a 66-16 record. Garnett's Defensive Player of the Year award underscored Boston's commitment to defense, making them a formidable adversary. This team went on to win the NBA Championship, reviving the storied franchise's legacy.
One must also consider the Miami Heat from the 2012-13 season. Led by LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh, the Heat went on a memorable 27-game winning streak and ultimately secured a 66-16 record. LeBron's MVP season saw him average 26.8 points, 8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game. The Heat’s cohesive team play and individual brilliance secured them the NBA title that year.
The 1966-67 Philadelphia 76ers, led by Wilt Chamberlain, also deserve a mention. Wilt averaged 24.1 points and 24.2 rebounds, showcasing his versatility during that campaign. This 76ers team finished the season with a 68-13 record, a remarkable feat during that era. Chamberlain's influence on both offense and defense cemented their place as one of the greatest teams ever.
The 1999-2000 Los Angeles Lakers find their way into the conversation through sheer dominance. Shaquille O'Neal, in his prime, averaged 29.7 points and 13.6 rebounds per game during the regular season. This team, under Phil Jackson’s expert coaching, finished with a 67-15 record and clinched the NBA Championship. Their physical prowess and tactical intelligence made them a nightmare match-up for any opponent.
Great NBA teams don't just set records but also leave a lasting impact on the sport. Each of these teams I've mentioned set a unique standard in their era, displaying a combination of talent, strategy, and sheer willpower that made them truly special. For those interested in a closer analysis or keeping up with the latest in basketball, you can visit arena plus for more insights.