The 2020 NBA season was absolutely unique and unprecedented in many ways. The season commenced on October 22, 2019, and the regular season concluded on March 11, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Post that, the NBA implemented the "Bubble" environment in Orlando, Florida, where the remainder of the season was played out. If you looked at the standings, the nba standing 2020 showcased some extraordinary performances and unexpected turns.
The Milwaukee Bucks led the Eastern Conference, boasting a league-best 56-17 record, which translates to a winning percentage of .767. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the reigning MVP, was pivotal in their success, averaging 29.5 points, 13.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. This team was a powerhouse, and Giannis was their engine, driving them with relentless energy and unmatched athleticism.
On the Western Conference front, the Los Angeles Lakers topped the charts with a 52-19 record, giving them a .732 winning percentage. This was their first season back in the playoffs since 2013, largely thanks to the superstar duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. LeBron, averaging 25.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and a league-leading 10.2 assists per game, was nothing short of spectacular. Anthony Davis added 26.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, providing a defensive anchor as well.
The Toronto Raptors, having lost Kawhi Leonard in Free Agency, still managed an impressive run with a 53-19 record. This came as a surprise to many analysts who doubted their potential without their Finals MVP. Pascal Siakam stepped up significantly, averaging 22.9 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. Kyle Lowry also continued to be a beacon of leadership on the court.
The Miami Heat emerged as a surprise powerhouse, finishing the regular season 44-29 and making an exceptional run to the NBA Finals. Jimmy Butler, the team’s leader, averaged 19.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 6 assists per game. Bam Adebayo, an emerging star, contributed 15.9 points and 10.2 rebounds per game, showcasing his versatility and skillset on both ends of the court.
The Boston Celtics ended the regular season with a 48-24 record. Jayson Tatum’s breakout season, where he averaged 23.4 points and 7 rebounds, earned him his first All-Star selection. Kemba Walker provided veteran leadership and scoring, averaging 20.4 points per game. Their young core proved they could compete at a high level and were a tough matchup in the playoffs.
The Denver Nuggets, led by the impressive play of Nikola Jokic, boasted a 46-27 record. Jokic, often referred to as one of the best big men in the game, averaged 19.9 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 7 assists per game. Jamal Murray also showed his caliber, especially during the Bubble playoffs, where he had multiple 50-point games against Donovan Mitchell and the Utah Jazz.
Speaking of the Utah Jazz, they finished the regular season with a 44-28 record. Donovan Mitchell was their standout performer, averaging 24 points and 4.3 assists per game. Rudy Gobert, the stalwart on defense, made headlines early in the pandemic for his positive test, which led to the suspension of the season. His 13.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game played a significant role in their campaign.
The Dallas Mavericks had a spectacular season thanks to the unexpected rise of Luka Doncic. They finished with a 43-32 record. Luka, only in his sophomore season, averaged 28.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game, making him a top candidate for the MVP award. His performances drew parallels to historic greats, and many considered him the future face of the league.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, led by Chris Paul, surprised everyone with a 44-28 finish. Many had written off the Thunder after losing Paul George and Russell Westbrook. However, Chris Paul’s leadership and clutch performances were instrumental. He averaged 17.6 points and 6.7 assists per game, proving age was just a number.
Then, we had the Portland Trail Blazers who clinched the 8th seed with a 35-39 record, thanks to the heroics of Damian Lillard. Lillard averaged 30 points and 8 assists per game, and his performances in the Bubble were legendary. He had multiple 50-point games and even a memorable 61-point game against the Dallas Mavericks, earning him the Bubble MVP title.
The rest of the pack saw teams like the Indiana Pacers (45-28), Philadelphia 76ers (43-30), and the Houston Rockets (44-28) pushing their limits, guided by stars like Domantas Sabonis, Joel Embiid, and James Harden respectively. Each player had standout moments, with Harden leading the league in scoring with 34.3 points per game.
What about the regression of the Golden State Warriors? Injuries plagued their campaign, leading them to a 15-50 record, a sharp contrast from their dominance in previous seasons. With key players like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson out, it was a rough year for the former champions.
As I reflect back on the 2020 NBA season, it’s clear that resilience, adaptability, and individual brilliance defined an era that will be remembered for ages. Every team and player had a unique journey, painting the season with stories of determination and triumph against all odds. The standings didn’t just represent wins and losses but the collective effort and heart shown by each participant in this historic season.