I still remember the 2020-2021 NBA season vividly. This season felt nothing short of extraordinary, especially with the constant updates on the Arena Plus app. Starting with the Eastern Conference, the Philadelphia 76ers absolutely dominated. Led by Joel Embiid, the Sixers finished the regular season with a 49-23 record, securing the top seed. Embiid's average of 28.5 points per game was a career-high, clearly showing his MVP caliber. Honestly, if you doubt Embiid's impact, just recall their games against the Brooklyn Nets — pure intensity. The Nets themselves weren't far behind, with a 48-24 record, heavily relying on their one of a kind trio: Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden. Their combined talent was described by experts as "a nightmare for any defense."
Switching over to the Western Conference, the Utah Jazz shocked everyone, ending up with the best league record of 52-20. Donovan Mitchell's explosive performance, averaging 26.4 points per game, propelled the Jazz. Rudy Gobert, earning his third Defensive Player of the Year award, anchored the squad's defense. The Phoenix Suns, often considered playoff underdogs, seized the second spot with a 51-21 record, thanks to Chris Paul's veteran leadership and Devin Booker's scoring prowess. These two teams personified efficiency and consistency throughout the regular season.
Let's talk about some mind-blowing moments. Undoubtedly, one of those was the Lakers vs. Warriors play-in game. The game drew in millions of viewers and showcased LeBron James hitting a clutch three-pointer despite his "I saw three rims" remark due to an eye injury. The Lakers barely made it, finishing seventh in the Western Conference with a 42-30 record and ultimately stumbling against the Suns in the first round of the playoffs.
If you think about individual brilliance, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets deserves immense praise. Jokic became the first center to win the MVP award since Shaquille O'Neal in 2000, and it was well-deserved. His stats were off the charts: 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. The modern "point center," as they called him, truly embodied versatility. Denver closed the season with a 47-25 record, despite Jamal Murray's injury late in the season.
But how can this article be complete without mentioning the surprise factor? The New York Knicks, once considered a laughingstock, turned things around under Tom Thibodeau's coaching. Finishing fourth in the East with a 41-31 record, the Knicks saw Julius Randle flourish, earning the Most Improved Player award. Madison Square Garden roared back to life, and Knicks fans everywhere felt reinvigorated.
And when reflecting on this season, how can I forget the breakout performances by young stars? The Atlanta Hawks stunned everyone post All-Star break. They finished the season 41-31, largely due to Trae Young's phenomenal playmaking and scoring ability. Reaching the Eastern Conference Finals wasn't just an anomaly; it was a statement, with Young averaging 28.8 points and 9.5 assists during the playoffs. The Hawks' rise symbolizes the promising future of young talents asserting their dominance.
One can't overlook the Memphis Grizzlies, either. Ja Morant had fans on their feet, dunk after dunk, showcasing his explosiveness. The Grizzlies ended with a 38-34 record, battling their way through the play-in tournament to secure the eighth seed. Despite falling to Utah in the first round, Morant's relentless spirit left a mark.
What about the Golden State Warriors, you ask? Stephen Curry was nothing short of spectacular. He single-handedly carried the team, averaging 32 points per game, winning the scoring title, and even breaking several three-point records. The Warriors may have ended the season with a 39-33 record and missed the playoffs, but Curry's phenomenal year solidified his status among the all-time greats.
Every game, every clutch shot, and every buzzer-beater made this season one to remember. The 2020-2021 NBA season, for me, showcased resilience, adaptability, and brilliance. It set the stage for future seasons, and with platforms like arena plus keeping fans updated, the excitement and passion for basketball only seem to increase. From unforgettable performances to underdog stories, this season had it all. With fans slowly returning to the arenas, the soul of the game felt rejuvenated. The 2020-2021 NBA season will forever be etched in my memory as a year filled with highs, lows, and pure basketball magic.