When it comes to evaluating the best NBA teams of all time, people often focus on scoring, defense, or championships. But let’s talk about something equally crucial yet often overlooked: stealing. Stealing requires quick reflexes, an understanding of the opponent’s every move, and a bit of swagger—it’s an art form on the basketball court. In the NBA, many teams have excelled in this area, making steals a part of their defensive playbook and often converting these opportunities into points.
The 1988-89 season found the Seattle SuperSonics at the top of their stealing game. With an average of 10.8 steals per game, they blew away the competition. Led by point guard Nate McMillan, who averaged 2.96 steals per game, the Sonics were a defensive nightmare for their opponents. McMillan’s ability to read passing lanes and anticipate plays set him apart, and his numbers proved this claim. Even in today’s game, combining such stats with modern analytics, you’d see that an average of 10.8 steals per game could easily translate into extra points, possibly turning the tide of games if you convert them effectively.
Another remarkable example is the Philadelphia 76ers during the early 1980s, particularly the 1980-81 season. The Sixers averaged 10.2 steals per game, largely thanks to the extraordinary defensive skills of Maurice Cheeks. Anyone who saw Cheeks play could tell how his dexterity and quickness on the floor made him a perennial threat. He averaged 2.7 steals per game during that season, and the Sixers, as a team, utilized this to propel themselves into title contention. It’s no wonder why fans loved watching them; Cheeks’ influence spread throughout the roster, creating a defensive culture that was hard to break.
Fast forward to the 2000s, and the Detroit Pistons’ 2003-04 season stands out. With an average of 8.7 steals per game, the “Goin’ to Work” Pistons were more than just a defensive unit; they were a tenacious, gritty team that prided itself on hustle plays. Chauncey Billups and Ben Wallace were crucial players who spearheaded their defense. Billups averaged 1.1 steals per game, and Wallace, despite being a big man, added another 1.5 steals per game. Combining these two with a well-coordinated team effort made them menacing. It’s interesting to note how little details like these often result in winning championships, which the Pistons did that year.
The Golden State Warriors of the 2016-17 season provide another excellent case study. In a high-paced, three-point-focused era, the Warriors managed to average 9.6 steals per game. Their defensive strategy seamlessly integrated with their high-octane offense, allowing them to exploit turnovers quickly. Draymond Green, a defensive powerhouse, averaged 2 steals per game. His versatility on defense blocked passing lanes and disrupted the opponent’s flow, enhancing the team’s overall efficiency. Given the speed they played at, their high steal count often translated immediately into fast-break points, which is an analytical dream for any modern team.
Now, you can’t overlook the Chicago Bulls in the late ’90s. During the 1995-96 season, the Bulls averaged 9.8 steals per game, adding another layer of defensive dominance to a 72-win season. Scottie Pippen led the team in steals, averaging 1.96 per game, while Michael Jordan wasn’t far behind with 2.2 steals per game. They were more than just offensively brilliant; their defense, marked by those steal numbers, was able to stifle even the most potent offenses. Pippen’s ability to read the game on a micro level was uncanny, and Jordan’s athletic prowess allowed them to execute these steals effectively.
The New York Knicks’ 1992-93 season saw them averaging 9.5 steals per game. John Starks, one of the most aggressive defenders, averaged 1.6 steals per game, and this played a significant role in their defensive strategy. The term “grit and grind” could easily apply here, as their defensive tenacity was a direct result of such efforts. This specific year was significant for fans who relished the dive-for-loose-ball plays and the tenacity that the team embodied.
In recent times, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 2018-19 season showcased another defensive masterclass in stealing. With an average of 10.3 steals per game, they excelled in disrupting their opponents’ rhythm. Russell Westbrook and Paul George were at the helm, averaging 1.9 and 2.2 steals per game, respectively. Their incredible agility and anticipation skills allowed them to lead the league, giving the Thunder an edge in numerous games.
One cannot discuss steals without mentioning the San Antonio Spurs, specifically the 2000-01 season, where they averaged about 9 steals per game. Bruce Bowen was a standout defender, contributing 1.2 steals per game. Bowen’s defensive IQ and ability to annoy elite scorers were unrivaled. His efforts often turned defense into offense, creating transition opportunities that defiantly added points to the scoreboard.
Thinking back to the mid-90s, the Houston Rockets, during their 1993-94 championship season, also demonstrated remarkable skills with an average of 8.9 steals per game. Otis Thorpe and Hakeem Olajuwon were pivotal, adding 1.4 and 1.6 steals per game, respectively. Their defensive capabilities were nothing short of phenomenal, providing a backbone that the Rockets leaned on en route to their first NBA title. It’s impressive how these stats support the notion that steals can significantly influence a team’s success.
Lastly, it’s impossible to ignore the Toronto Raptors’ 2018-19 championship season. Averaging 8.3 steals per game, their defense was a cornerstone of their successful run. Kyle Lowry, known for his bulldog mentality, averaged 1.4 steals per game. Lowry’s relentless pressure on opposing ball handlers provided a defensive intensity that was crucial during their playoff run. His scrappy playstyle contributed to the team’s overall defensive efficiency.
If one dives into the analytics and data-driven era of arena plus, modern teams continue to recognize the value of steals, often integrating it into their game plans. Not only do steals provide an immediate benefit of stopping the opponent’s play, but they also offer a chance for quick transitions and points. Thus, the art of stealing remains an essential element for teams that strive for greatness in the NBA.