Top 5 NBA squads of all time
There's still over a month left before the much-awaited 2017-18 NBA regular season commences when the uber talented Golden State Warriors begin their title defence for the second time in three years. The record-breaking rise of the Oakland-based franchise over the past few seasons has sparked debates as to their spot amongst the greatest teams of all-time.
Over a three year period, the Warriors have captured two titles, beat the Chicago Bulls' regular season record with a 73-win campaign and went 16-1 in the Playoffs en route to clinching their most recent championship.
However, to even be in the conversation for the greatest team of all time, a championship is a must. Therefore, the '73 ain't mean a thing, without a ring', holds true. So do any of the previous two Warriors' championship teams make the cut?
P.S: Yes.
#5 1988-89 Detroit Pistons
Record: 63-19
The 1988-89 roster of the 'Bad Boys' was one of the most feared, efficient and physical defences of the modern era. Although pillared around versatile wingman Dennis Rodman, the Pistons defence was a lot more than just him. Their backcourt of Isiah Thomas and Joe Dumars took care of the perimeter while the inside was manned with ferocious intensity by the likes of John Salley and Bill Laimbeer.
Offensively, they were well taken care of by Thomas and Dumars, who went on to be named the Finals MVP that year. Apart from the duo, Mark Aguirre was a crucial piece who could put up points in a hurry.
They went 15-2 in the 1989 Playoffs and are one of only two teams in NBA history to have swept the defending champions en route to clinching an NBA title.