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NBA's All-Time Best: Warriors Dethrone Bulls?
21 May
Summary
- Warriors' 2016-17 team narrowly ranked best NBA champion ever.
- 1995-96 Bulls considered greatest by many over decades.
- Boston's 1986 Celtics boast a 40-1 home record, a lasting feat.
The 2016-17 Golden State Warriors have been named the greatest NBA champion team in history by a panel of 11 writers and editors. This selection narrowly edged out the revered 1995-96 Chicago Bulls, a team consistently lauded as the best. The Warriors' roster, bolstered by the addition of Kevin Durant, achieved 67 regular-season wins and dominated opponents by an average of 11.6 points.
Despite the Bulls' legendary status, characterized by Michael Jordan's brilliance and a 72-10 record, 8 of the 11 voters favored the Warriors. This decision reflects the evolution of the game and the Warriors' revolutionary 'Splash Brothers' era. The 1995-96 Bulls, with Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman, embraced a team-oriented offense and set a then-record 72 wins, cruising to a 15-3 playoff record.
Other historical titans also feature prominently. The 1985-86 Boston Celtics, led by Larry Bird, are celebrated for their deep roster and an astounding 40-1 home record at the Boston Garden, a feat that has stood for nearly 40 years. The 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers, featuring Jerry West and Wilt Chamberlain, are recognized for their historic 33-game winning streak, a record that endures to this day.
