The 2021 NBA season delivered thrills, spills, and some of the most memorable moments in recent history. I found the intensity palpable right from the opening tip-off, with teams battling not just opponents but the constraints of a pandemic-driven schedule. The season shortened to 72 games, compared to the usual 82 games, added urgency to every matchup. Fans like me crunched the numbers: fewer games meant each win or loss had a significant impact on playoff rankings.
What really stood out was the scoring explosion. Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors averaged an astounding 32.0 points per game, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the greatest shooters of all time. His performance bolstered the Warriors' hopes despite their otherwise inconsistent play. Kevin Durant and James Harden joining forces with Kyrie Irving on the revamped Brooklyn Nets was another highlight. This trio averaged nearly 85 points per game, transforming the team into an offensive juggernaut. Watching them play made me reconsider what an "unstoppable offense" truly meant.
The presence of COVID-19 loomed large throughout the season. Players, coaches, and staff followed strict protocols, and nearly all games took place without full capacity crowds. Several games were postponed, and on-court performance sometimes varied depending on whether key players were quarantining. For example, the Philadelphia 76ers saw their star Joel Embiid miss several games, creating a ripple effect through their lineup. The NBA reported 31 positive cases out of approximately 500 players tested during one tumultuous week in January. Those numbers, while small relatively, had massive implications for team chemistry and performance.
How can we discuss this season without mentioning the Phoenix Suns' incredible rise? Led by veteran Chris Paul and young star Devin Booker, the Suns finished second in the Western Conference with a record of 51-21. This represented a massive leap from the previous years when they were far from playoff contention. Chris Paul, at the ripe age of 35, demonstrated that experience and leadership can significantly tilt the scales. Observing Paul's impact firsthand felt like witnessing a masterclass in point guard play.
Rookie standout LaMelo Ball took the Charlotte Hornets to another level. His averages of 15.7 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game earned him the Rookie of the Year award despite a mid-season wrist injury. Watching LaMelo, I thought about how quickly he defied expectations and silenced doubters. We all knew he had potential, but he showcased an all-around game that made the Hornets a team worth watching.
What debate stirred the most? The MVP race, of course. Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets was a frontrunner for most of the season, leading his team with averages of 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. A true center running the offense like a point guard felt revolutionary. Some argued for Joel Embiid, who had monstrous statistics as well, but injuries dulled his case. When Jokic finally secured the MVP trophy, he became the first center to do so since Shaquille O’Neal in 2000—a milestone that solidified his place in NBA history.
The playoffs brought their own drama. The Milwaukee Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who averaged 28.1 points and 11.0 rebounds per game during the regular season, powered through to win the NBA Championship. Giannis delivered an unforgettable performance in the Finals, especially in Game 6, where he scored 50 points and grabbed 14 rebounds. It was one of those games where I could feel the energy through the TV screen, as though I was right there in the arena. His Finals MVP award was well-deserved, a testament to his work ethic and dedication.
LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers faced unanticipated challenges. After winning the title in 2020, the Lakers struggled with injuries. LeBron missed 27 games due to a high ankle sprain, and Anthony Davis missed even more with calf issues. They slipped to the seventh seed and were eventually ousted by the Suns in the first round. It felt like the end of an era, questioning if this Lakers duo could stay healthy enough for future runs.
How about the New York Knicks? Their unforeseen success earned Tom Thibodeau the Coach of the Year award. Julius Randle turned into an All-Star, averaging 24.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. For someone who’s followed the Knicks for years, seeing them in the playoffs filled with me an unexpected pride and optimism. Madison Square Garden felt alive again, even with limited fan attendance.
Many close games and buzzer-beaters added to the excitement. Damian Lillard’s game-winners for the Portland Trail Blazers are always a spectacle. His clutch performance against the Chicago Bulls, where he hit a step-back three-pointer to win the game, was a highlight. Lillard’s "Dame Time" moments have become iconic, confirming his status as one of the most reliable clutch players in the league.
The pandemic also forced teams to adapt rapidly. The Toronto Raptors played home games in Tampa, Florida, due to Canada's travel restrictions. It’s hard to imagine how unsettling that must have been, affecting both performance and team morale. They ended the season with a 27-45 record, missing the playoffs, which was a significant drop from previous success. Their struggle was a stark reminder of how external factors can dramatically impact a season.
Overall, the 2021 NBA season was one of adaptation, resilience, and sheer unpredictability. Check out more details on the fascinating season through nba season 2021. Watching these athletes navigate through unprecedented challenges while delivering phenomenal performances made it a season I won’t soon forget. Reflecting on the highs and lows, the season felt like a microcosm of life's unpredictability and the relentless pursuit of excellence.