Looking back at the nba standings 2018, it was quite an exciting and competitive year in the league. The Golden State Warriors, with their star-studded lineup including Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Klay Thompson, clinched the top spot in the Western Conference. They ended the regular season with a record of 58-24. This winning percentage of approximately 70.7% reflects their dominance, although not as dominant as their 73-9 record from 2015-2016. Watching them was like witnessing a masterclass in basketball efficiency and teamwork.
In contrast, the Houston Rockets led by James Harden finished the season with an impressive 65-17 record, the best in the NBA that year, boasting a winning percentage of around 79.3%. Harden's average of 30.4 points per game and Chris Paul's support propelled the Rockets forward. The Rockets' offense was electric, averaging 112.4 points per game, and their use of analytics and emphasis on three-point shooting was a game-changer, especially in the modern era of basketball where spacing and perimeter shooting are essential concepts.
Over in the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors emerged as the top seed with a 59-23 record. This triumph for the Canadian team, led by Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan, was a historical moment. The Raptors' steadfast coaching and balanced team effort were critical. With an average of 111.7 points per game and a defense that allowed only 103.9 points per game, they demonstrated the value of a well-rounded, two-way approach. It was hard not to appreciate their grit and cohesive playstyle.
The Boston Celtics weren't far behind, finishing with a 55-27 record despite significant injuries to key players like Gordon Hayward and Kyrie Irving. Even with these setbacks, the Celtics' young core, including Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, stepped up in a big way. This resilience illustrated the effectiveness of Brad Stevens's coaching and the strong developmental culture within the franchise. Their defensive strength, with a rating of 101.5, was among the best in the league.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, during LeBron James' last season with the team, secured the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference, finishing with a 50-32 record. LeBron's leadership and stats were sensational. He averaged 27.5 points, 9.1 assists, and 8.6 rebounds per game, practically carrying the team on his back. Witnessing his endurance and unparalleled basketball IQ throughout the season was nothing short of remarkable. Although the team had its ups and downs, LeBron's performance was a testament to his status as one of the greatest players of all time.
Elsewhere, the young Philadelphia 76ers made headway with a 52-30 record, signalling the success of their "Process". Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons were instrumental, showcasing their potential to become perennial All-Stars. Embiid averaged 22.9 points and 11 rebounds per game, while Simmons tallied 15.8 points, 8.2 assists, and 8.1 rebounds per game, highlighting their dominance and versatility on the court. The Sixers’ rise was a significant step in the evolution of the team, a promise of a bright future built on the foundations of patience and development.
Among other notable mentions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, featuring the formidable trio of Russell Westbrook, Paul George, and Carmelo Anthony, achieved a 48-34 record. Westbrook, known for his relentless energy and explosive play, averaged a triple-double for the second consecutive season. This achievement, something that was once thought impossible to sustain, redefined the expectations and standards for elite point guards. Westbrook's performance brought excitement and often unpredictability, making every Thunder game a must-watch experience.
The Minnesota Timberwolves broke their long playoff drought, finishing with a 47-35 record. Led by Jimmy Butler and Karl-Anthony Towns, their return to relevance was a positive story in 2018. Their defense, however, needed improvement as they allowed 109.5 points per game, reflecting a significant area for growth. Nonetheless, their contribution to a more competitive Western Conference was undeniable, making them a team to watch for future seasons.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Phoenix Suns posted the league's worst record at 21-61. Despite having promising young talents like Devin Booker and the first overall draft pick, Deandre Ayton, the Suns struggled mightily. Their defense was porous, allowing an average of 113.3 points per game, highlighting the significant gaps in their roster that needed to be addressed. The hardship they faced was a stark reminder of the challenges young teams encounter in their developmental phases.
Another struggling franchise, the Memphis Grizzlies, stumbled to a 22-60 record, significantly impacted by injuries to key players like Mike Conley and Marc Gasol. The Grizzlies, known for their "Grit and Grind" style, faced an identity crisis. Their drop highlighted how crucial veteran leadership and health are to a franchise's success, especially in the grueling, competitive landscape of the NBA.
Reflecting on the standings, it’s clear that the 2018 season was one of unprecedented individual performances, highly competitive team races, and significant storylines. The NBA continued to evolve, embracing new strategies and showcasing unique talents. The standings tell part of the story, but the real magic lies within the dynamics, thrills, and narratives that defined every twist and turn of that memorable season.