When talking about the best teams in NBA history, you have to start with the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls. They finished the regular season with a staggering 72-10 record, which stood as a league-best until the Golden State Warriors surpassed it in the 2015-16 season. Led by Michael Jordan, who averaged 30.4 points per game, along with Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, this Bulls team dominated on both ends of the court. Their defense prowess was unmistakable, as they held opponents to an average of 92.9 points per game. It wasn't just the record that set them apart; their offensive efficiency ranked first in the league, making this team truly legendary.
Another remarkable team has to be the 1985-86 Boston Celtics. With a 67-15 regular season record, this team was nearly unstoppable. Featuring NBA legends like Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish, the Celtics clinched the NBA Championship by defeating the Houston Rockets 4-2 in the Finals. The chemistry between Bird, who averaged 25.8 points per game, and McHale, who contributed 21.3 points per game, was unparalleled. They had an effective field goal percentage of 54.2%, which underscored their offensive efficiency and prowess. The team's dominance in the paint and their tenacious defense made them formidable opponents.
You can't have a conversation about top NBA teams without mentioning the 2000-01 Los Angeles Lakers. This team, led by Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant, has a postseason record of 15-1, the best in NBA playoff history at the time. Shaq averaged a double-double with 30.4 points and 15.4 rebounds per game, while Kobe added 29.4 points per game. Their commanding presence and scoring ability made the Lakers unstoppable. The Finals saw them sweeping the Philadelphia 76ers, proving their dominance during that era. These Lakers set a standard for playoff excellence that remains part of NBA folklore.
The 2016-17 Golden State Warriors also deserve mention among the greatest teams. Steve Kerr's squad ended the regular season with a 67-15 record, featuring star players like Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. Durant averaged 25.1 points per game, while Curry contributed 25.3 points per game, forming an offensive powerhouse that opponents found hard to counter. They swept the Portland Trail Blazers, Utah Jazz, and San Antonio Spurs, boasting a 16-1 playoff record. Their remarkable 16-game winning streak in the playoffs set a new benchmark for postseason dominance.
Let's not overlook the 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers. This team not only posted a then-record 69-13 season but also had a historic 33-game winning streak, the longest in NBA history. With Wilt Chamberlain posting 14.8 points and 19.2 rebounds per game, alongside Jerry West's 25.8 points per game, the team's balanced scoring and defense were their biggest assets. They outscored opponents by an average of 12.3 points per game. Their remarkable streak and eventual championship win cemented their legacy in the annals of NBA history.
The 1966-67 Philadelphia 76ers, led by Wilt Chamberlain, also make the list. They had a 68-13 regular season record and dominated the playoffs, defeating the San Francisco Warriors 4-2 in the Finals. Chamberlain, who averaged 24.1 points and 24.2 rebounds per game, was a force to be reckoned with. The team focused on an efficient and high-scoring offense, scoring an average of 125.2 points per game during the season. This team ended the Boston Celtics' consecutive championship streak, marking a significant shift in the NBA during that era.
Another standout team is the 1982-83 Philadelphia 76ers. They went 65-17 during the regular season and swept the Lakers 4-0 in the NBA Finals. Moses Malone and Julius Erving led the team, with Malone averaging 24.5 points and 15.3 rebounds per game. Erving, also known as "Dr. J," contributed 21.4 points per game. This team was often praised for its defensive intensity and rebounding capabilities. Their journey to the championship included Malone famously predicting a "Fo', Fo', Fo'" outcome, meaning three consecutive sweeps, which nearly became a reality as they went 12-1 in the playoffs.
Discussing the greatest teams in NBA history, one cannot forget the 1999-2000 Los Angeles Lakers. Under Phil Jackson's coaching, they finished with a 67-15 record. Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant were at the peak of their careers; Shaq averaged 29.7 points and 13.6 rebounds per game, while Kobe chipped in 22.5 points per game. The Lakers had an amazing playoff run, which included a dramatic 7-game series against the Portland Trail Blazers in the Western Conference Finals. Their defensive strategy often left opponents struggling to keep up, paving the way for their championship victory against the Indiana Pacers.
One can't leave out the 1988-89 Detroit Pistons, also known as the "Bad Boys." They had a 63-19 regular season and went on to sweep the Lakers 4-0 in the Finals, showcasing their gritty and physical style of play. Isiah Thomas and Joe Dumars led the team, with Thomas averaging 18.2 points and 8.3 assists per game. Their suffocating defense, often employing aggressive tactics, forced numerous turnovers that they capitalized on. This team exemplified toughness and resilience, creating a lasting legacy in the league.
For a more recent addition, the 2012-13 Miami Heat can't be ignored. They posted a 66-16 regular season record, including an impressive 27-game winning streak, the second-longest in NBA history. LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh formed a formidable trio. LeBron averaged 26.8 points, 8 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game, showcasing his versatility. The Heat's ability to switch positions and run fast breaks efficiently was their trademark. They edged out the San Antonio Spurs in a thrilling 7-game Finals series, with Ray Allen's clutch three-pointer in Game 6 creating one of the most memorable moments in NBA history.
Each of these teams brought something unique to the table, further illustrating why they stand out in NBA history. Whether it's dominating defense, record-breaking winning streaks, or standout individual performances, these teams have created legacies that continue to inspire and influence the game. For more on the excitement of basketball, check out arena plus.