Looking back at the 2020 NBA season, the teams and their standings tell quite a fascinating story. The Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, dominated the Western Conference with 52 wins out of 71 games, putting them at a winning percentage of .732. This performance underscored their strength and the impeccable form of their star players.
The Milwaukee Bucks showcased an equally formidable season in the Eastern Conference. With a season record of 56-17, they achieved a winning percentage of .767, the highest in the league. Giannis Antetokounmpo, their standout star, averaged 29.5 points per game, making a significant impact game after game. I remember tuning in to some of their matches and being completely awed by the 'Greek Freak's' versatility and sheer power on the court.
Many often wonder if the unusual circumstances of the 2020 season affected team performances. The bubble environment in Orlando indeed introduced unique challenges, but teams like the Miami Heat thrived, finishing fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 44-29 record. Jimmy Butler proved pivotal in their playoff run, averaging 19.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 6 assists per game. His tenacity exemplified the kind of mental toughness teams needed that season.
Another interesting aspect was the performance of the Toronto Raptors. Despite losing Kawhi Leonard to free agency, they finished second in the East with a 53-19 record, which translates to an impressive .736 winning percentage. Pascal Siakam stepped up, averaging 22.9 points per game, and Kyle Lowry remained a steady hand at the helm. The Raptors’ depth and cohesive play were evident throughout the season.
The Dallas Mavericks stood out in the Western Conference with Luka Dončić at the helm. With a season record of 43-32, the Mavericks secured the seventh spot. Luka’s sophomore season averages of 28.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game earned him an All-Star selection. It's hard not to be excited about the future when watching young talents like Luka shine on such platforms.
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans were another team that generated quite a buzz. Despite finishing 13th in the Western Conference with a 30-42 record, all eyes were on Zion Williamson. Zion, limited to 24 games due to injury, still made headlines with his explosive 22.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, often showcasing unparalleled athleticism.
The dramatic shift in standings due to the shortened season, with each team playing approximately 72 games instead of the usual 82, added an element of unpredictability. Teams had to adjust quickly, and those that adapted well, like the Lakers and Bucks, clearly reaped the benefits.
The Boston Celtics also had a season worth noting, finishing third in the East with a 48-24 record. Jayson Tatum emerged as a leading star for them, averaging 23.4 points per game, and his clutch play in tight games made him a fan favorite. I still remember his game-winner against the New York Knicks, a sheer display of composure and skill.
It's also crucial to mention the Oklahoma City Thunder, who, despite trading away their stars, finished with a 44-28 record, placing fifth in the West. Chris Paul’s leadership and elite playmaking were instrumental in their success, with Paul averaging 17.6 points and 6.7 assists per game. His influence on and off the court made a significant difference, proving that experience often trumps raw talent.
In contrast, the Golden State Warriors endured a challenging season, plagued by injuries to key players like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. Ending the season with a mere 15-50 record, the Warriors found themselves at the bottom of the Western Conference. Their fall from their former dominance was stark, but the promise of their star players returning added hope for the next season.
The dynamics of the 2020 NBA season offered fans a mixture of expected outcomes and surprising twists. With the Lakers capturing that year's title, it was a testament to their resilience amid the unprecedented challenges everyone faced. The passion and performance levels amidst such difficult times left a lasting impression on me, and for many, it reiterated why basketball is much more than just a game.
For more information about the standings and other details, you can check out the official website for nba standing 2020.