NBA Rivals Week: These are the biggest NBA rivalries of all time

Throughout the rich tapestry of NBA history, certain playoff rivalries stand out as epic clashes that have left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we delve into the top 10 matchups that have defined eras, ranging from the physical battles of the Bad Boy Pistons to the iconic duels between the Lakers and Celtics.

10. Celtics vs. Pistons: The Bad Boys and Larry Legend (1985-1991)

During the late 1980s, the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons had a fierce rivalry characterized by their contrasting styles and personalities. Larry Bird led the Celtics, while the Bad Boy Pistons relied on a more physical playstyle. Their five playoff matchups from 1985 to 1991 demonstrated the toughness and intensity of postseason basketball.

9. Cavs vs. Bulls: The LeBron James Era Dominance (2010, 2015)

In the ‘80s and ‘90s, the Chicago Bulls were the dominant team against the Cavaliers. However, in the 2010s, the tables turned when LeBron James joined Cleveland and led the team to victory in playoff series against the Bulls in 2010 and 2015. This marked a significant shift in the dynamics of this historic matchup.

8. Heat vs. Knicks: The Riley Spark (Late ‘90s, 2012)

During the late 90s, the rivalry between the Miami Heat and the New York Knicks peaked. This rivalry was fueled by the intense coaching comPetition between Pat Riley and his former team, the Knicks. In 2012, the Heat, led by LeBron James, further solidified their dominance by defeating the Knicks in a five-Game first-round series.

7. Spurs vs. Lakers: Battle of Dominance (1999-2013)

The early 2000s witnessed the San Antonio Spurs and Los Angeles Lakers asserting their dominance as the two most formidable teams in basketball. With legendary coaches Phil Jackson and Gregg Popovich guiding them, the Lakers (Bryant, O’Neal) and Spurs (Duncan, Parker) met in multiple NBA Western Conference Finals, with the Spurs famously ending the Lakers’ dynasty in 2003.

6. Spurs vs. Suns: Classic Showdowns (2003-2008)

The Spurs-Suns rivalry was known for featuring battles between two legendary basketball players, Charles Barkley, and David Robinson, in the early days, and it escalated into a classic playoff series in the mid-2000s. However, controversy struck during the 2007 West Semifinals Game 5 when Robert Horry knocked Steve Nash into the scorer’s table at mid-court. This led to his ejection with Raja Bell, who received a technical during the group altercation. The incident changed the series’ direction and left a lasting impact on this intense matchup, which has remained just as fierce since then.

5. Pacers vs. Knicks: ‘90s Playoff Drama (1993-2000)

The 1990s also saw the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks’ fierce basketball rivalry, producing many unforgettable moments. From Reggie Miller’s impressive scoring performance in 1995 to the Knicks’ surprising playoff run in 1998, this matchup provided fans with a lot of playoff drama that kept them on the edge of their seats.

4. Bulls vs. Knicks: Jordan’s Dominance (1989-1996)

The Chicago Bulls, with their star player Michael Jordan, who was born in Brooklyn but grew up in North Carolina, had a fierce rivalry against the New York Knicks, led by Patrick Ewing. This matchup was famous for its intense physical play and iconic moments. Despite the Bulls’ dominance, what made this rivalry particularly memorable was Jordan’s return from retirement, and the unforgettable games played, especially those at New York’s Madison Square Garden, which have a special place in the history of the NBA.

3. Pistons vs. Bulls: Jordan and Isiah’s Feud (Late ‘80s)

During the late ‘80s, the rivalry between the Pistons and the Bulls peaked when Isiah Thomas’ Pistons fiercely battled against Michael Jordan’s Bulls. The games were known for their physicality and the infamous “Jordan Rules.” The intensity of this historic rivalry was further amplified by the walkout that occurred after the 1991 Conference Finals.

2. Celtics vs. 76ers: From Russell to Bird and Dr. J (1950s-2002)

The rivalry between the Celtics and 76ers has been ongoing for several decades and featured some of the most iconic duels in the history of the NBA. From the legendary matchups between Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain in the 1960s to the unforgettable games between Larry Bird and Julius Erving in the 1980s, this rivalry has left an indelible mark on the history of basketball.

1. Lakers vs. Celtics: The Pinnacle of NBA Rivalries (1950s-Present)

The rivalry between the Lakers and Celtics is considered the greatest in NBA History, and the historic numbers don’t lie. Both teams have faced each other 12 times in the NBA Finals, winning 33 championships.

From the Russell-Chamberlain era to Bird-Magic and beyond, this matchup has defined generations of basketball and produced some of the most iconic moments in the sport’s History. The Lakers finally emerged victorious over the Celtics in 1985, marking a historic turning point in this enduring rivalry.