When talking about the greatest NBA teams ever, some squads unequivocally deserve to be at the top. I can't overlook the '95-96 Chicago Bulls. They stormed through the season with a 72-10 record, holding the best record in NBA history until the '15-16 Golden State Warriors managed to break it. However, it's significant to mention that the Bulls captured the NBA championship that year, while the Warriors fell short in the Finals. Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman were a force to be reckoned with, redefined a team’s endurance and peek performance during playoff games, reflecting how a well-rounded team can perform under pressure.
It's hard to argue against the '86-87 Los Angeles Lakers as well. Magic Johnson led that team to a 65-17 record, and they famously dominated the competition in the playoffs, losing only three games. Johnson's court vision and playmaking ability revolutionized the concept of the point guard position. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar at 40 still contributed effectively, showcasing how experience can triumph over youth. The "Showtime" Lakers not only captured the championship but forever changed the dynamics of fast-paced play in the NBA.
The '00-01 Los Angeles Lakers also hold a special place in NBA history. Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant were nearly unstoppable, and the team finished the regular season with a 56-26 record. More impressively, they went 15-1 in the playoffs, a winning percentage of nearly 94%. This team was a perfect blend of power and finesse, combining the brute strength of Shaq in the paint with Kobe's deadly scoring from anywhere on the court. It's no wonder they are considered one of the most dominant playoff teams.
The Boston Celtics of '85-86 also need mention. Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish carried the team to a 67-15 record. The Celtics of this era exemplified teamwork and defensive tenacity. Bird was in his prime, securing his third consecutive MVP title that season, and the team was a perfect embodiment of chemistry and skill. I mean, think about it, they were unbeatable at home, going 40-1 at Boston Garden.
When evaluating great teams, the '66-67 Philadelphia 76ers also stand out. Wilt Chamberlain led them to a 68-13 record, and they set a then-record for wins in a season. Wilt's dominance at both ends of the floor showed why he remains one of the most impactful players in NBA history. The team broke the Boston Celtics' stranglehold on the NBA, which was no small feat given the Celtics had won the previous eight championships.
I can't ignore the '82-83 Philadelphia 76ers, who were led by Julius Erving and Moses Malone. They finished the regular season with a 65-17 record, Malone's "Fo, Fo, Fo" prediction almost came true as they went 12-1 in the postseason. This squad was the epitome of grit and physicality, attributes that many believe today's teams could use a bit more of.
The '14-15 Golden State Warriors kicked off a new era of basketball with their 67-15 record. It wasn't just their shots beyond the arc that were impressive, but the way they used ball movement and defense to their advantage. Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, known as the "Splash Brothers," changed how we think about spacing and three-point shooting. They brought a new level of excitement to the game, winning their first of three championships in four years.
The '68-69 Boston Celtics deserve recognition too. Bill Russell in his final season led them to a remarkable championship victory over the Lakers in the Finals. Why is this significant? The Celtics only had a 48-34 record, but their playoff performance showed just how crucial experience and veteran leadership are in the postseason. Russell's Celtics won 11 championships in 13 seasons, an achievement that stands unmatched in major professional sports.
Talking about the '72 Los Angeles Lakers is also inevitable. They set an NBA record with a 33-game winning streak and finished with a 69-13 record. Led by Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West, this team's combination of individual talent and teamwork was incredible. They finally captured the championship that had eluded them for years, making their dominance complete.
Meanwhile, the '03-04 Detroit Pistons, who didn't have any superstars but were still phenomenal, won the championship with a 54-28 record. Their team-first mentality, anchored by a historically great defense, stunned the Los Angeles Lakers in the Finals. Coach Larry Brown's strategic acumen and unyielding defense made this team standout and exemplified how teamwork can outshine star power.
Listing these teams only scratches the surface of what the NBA has seen throughout the years. From the revolutionary guard play of Magic Johnson to the unstoppable force that was Michael Jordan, there’s no shortage of legends who’ve made their mark. It’s this diversity of talent, strategies, and moments that makes ranking these teams challenging yet exhilarating.
Ultimately, determining the best NBA teams in history comes down to more than just numbers and records. It's about the moments that captured the imagination of fans, the rivalries that fueled the competition, and the legendary performances that will be remembered forever. And if you're into betting or just want to learn more about basketball, check out arena plus for more exciting updates and opportunities.