What are the top teams in NBA history?

The list of teams that can be regarded as the greatest in NBA history is lengthy and remarkable, ranging from powerful dynasties that won numerous titles in a row to one-season juggernauts that captivated fans worldwide. In light of this, it is worthwhile to examine a few of these clubs and their histories as we consider the NBA’s lengthy past and the development of the sport.

• Chicago Bulls (1995-96)

The Chicago Bulls of 1995–96 set a record with 72 wins during the regular season. That season, Michael Jordan, who earned his fourth MVP trophy, led the team in assists, rebounds, and points scored per game. The success of Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman was largely dependent on Phil Jackson’s coaching of the triangle offense. The 1995–96 Bulls, who were led by Pippen, Rodman, Jackson, and Jordan, are going to be recognized as one of the best teams in NBA history.

• Los Angeles Lakers (1971-72)

With 69 regular season victories, the Los Angeles Lakers in 1971–72 broke the previous record. Leading by Wilt Chamberlain, Gail Goodrich, and Jerry West, they defeated the Milwaukee Bucks and the New York Knicks in the postseason to win the NBA championship. In terms of points per game, Goodrich led the club. With an average of 25.9 points per game, Goodrich also made a contribution, and Chamberlain led the team in rebounds with 14.8 per game. The club with the highest scoring average in the league was led by Bill Sharman.

• Golden State Warriors (2016-17)

The Golden State Warriors of 2016–17 had an 81.7% win percentage and a record of 67–15 at the end of the regular season. They won 16 playoff games and only lost one, led by NBA Finals MVP Kevin Durant, NBA Defensive Player of the Year Draymond Green, and NBA Player of the Year Stephen Curry. They proved they were among the best teams in NBA history when they defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games during the NBA Finals.

• Cleveland Cavaliers (2015-16)

With a record of 57-25 at the end of the regular season, the Cleveland Cavaliers of 2015–16 were leading the Eastern Conference. They won their first NBA title with the help of LeBron James (MVP of the NBA Finals, All-NBA First Team), Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Love. They won 16 postseason games and only lost five. The Cavaliers pulled off one of the biggest comebacks in NBA history, winning three straight after trailing 3-1 in the series, thanks to a shot from Irving in Game 7.

• Boston Celtics (1985-86)

The Boston Celtics of 1985–86 were a storied squad that concluded with 67 victories and 15 losses. The Celtics dominated the playoffs, winning 15 games and losing just three to win the NBA championship. They were led by Larry Bird (1987 MVP, 1987 NBA Finals MVP, All-NBA First Team), Kevin McHale (All-NBA Defensive First Team), Robert Parish, Bill Walton (Sixth Man of the Year), and Dennis Johnson (All-NBA Defensive Second Team). For over two decades, Boston had not hosted an NBA Championship before.

• Detroit Pistons (1988-89)

The Detroit Pistons enjoyed an incredible season in 1988–89, going 63–19 in the regular season and taking down the Los Angeles Lakers in four games to win the NBA championship. Thomas, who averaged 27.3 points and 6.3 assists per game, was awarded the MVP of the Finals. Because of their gritty and rough style of play, the Pistons were dubbed as “Bad Boys.” They cemented their status as one of the best teams in NBA history with their outstanding regular season and postseason achievements.