10 Greatest Net Rating NBA Teams Of All Time

Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls are the greatest best team in NBA history when it comes to Net Rating.

The Chicago Bulls and Golden State Warriors dynasties featuring Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant are consistently mentioned as two of the greatest teams, but how do they fare when looking at their Net Rating?

Net Rating in the NBA is a statistic that measures a team’s point differential per 100 possessions. It is calculated by subtracting a team’s defensive rating (points allowed per 100 possessions) from its offensive rating (points scored per 100 possessions). Here are the 10 greatest teams in NBA history in terms of Net Rating.

1. 1995-96 Chicago Bulls

ORTG: 115.2

DRTG: 101.8

Net Rating: +13.4

Record: 72-10 (1st In Eastern Conference)

Result: Won NBA Finals (4-2 vs. Seattle SuperSonics)

The 1995-96 Chicago Bulls is often considered the greatest team in NBA history, and for good reason. Led by the legendary Michael Jordan, along with Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman, the Bulls set a then-record with a remarkable 72-10 regular-season record. Their offensive prowess, reflected in an ORTG of 115.2, was complemented by their defensive tenacity, holding opponents to a DRTG of 101.8.

Their historic season culminated in an NBA Finals victory over the Gary Payton-led Seattle SuperSonics, solidifying their legacy as one of the most iconic teams in basketball history. The team’s ability to dominate on both ends of the floor, combined with their star-studded lineup and unmatched competitiveness, makes them the most dominant team in history and we haven’t seen another team like them since.

2. 1996-97 Chicago Bulls

ORTG: 114.4

DRTG: 102.4

Net Rating: +12.0

Record: 69-13 (1st In Eastern Conference)

Result: Won NBA Finals (4-2 vs. Utah Jazz)

Following their historic 72-win season, the 1996-97 Chicago Bulls continued their dominance in the NBA. Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman led the charge, showcasing their unparalleled skill, teamwork, and determination. With an ORTG of 114.4 and a stifling DRTG of 102.4, the Bulls maintained their reputation as an offensive and defensive juggernaut.

Their season concluded with a hard-fought NBA Finals victory over the Karl Malone and John Stockton-led Utah Jazz, further solidifying their status as basketball legends. The team’s ability to sustain their success and capture back-to-back championships speaks volumes about their resilience, adaptability, and commitment to excellence with the GOAT, Michael Jordan, leading the way.

3. 2016-17 Golden State Warriors

ORTG: 115.6

DRTG: 104.0

Net Rating +11.6

Record: 67-15 (1st In Western Conference)

Result: Won NBA Finals (4-1 vs. Cleveland Cavaliers)

The 2016-17 Golden State Warriors etched their name in NBA history with their explosive offense and disciplined defense. Led by superstars Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, the Warriors were a formidable force on the court, boasting an impressive ORTG of 115.6 and a solid DRTG of 104.0 while ranking first in PPG (115.9).

Their regular-season dominance translated into a 67-15 record and a 1st place finish in the Western Conference. The Warriors continued their strong performance in the playoffs, ultimately capturing the NBA Championship by defeating the LeBron James-led Cleveland Cavaliers in a thrilling 4-1 series. No doubt, Kevin Durant’s decision to join the Warriors in free agency changed the NBA landscape, and that is why they are often mentioned alongside the 1995-96 Bulls as the greatest collection of talent ever.

4. 2015-16 San Antonio Spurs

ORTG: 110.3

DRTG: 99.0

Net Rating +11.3

Record: 67-15 (2nd In Western Conference)

Result: Lost In Western Conference Semifinals (2-4 vs. Oklahoma City Thunder)

The 2015-16 San Antonio Spurs, with their precision offense and stifling defense, continued their tradition of excellence in the NBA. With an ORTG of 110.3 and a league-leading DRTG of 99.0, the Spurs showcased their balanced approach to the game, emphasizing both scoring efficiency and defensive intensity under Gregg Popovich’s strict system.

The 2015-16 Spurs were led by aging stars Tim Duncan (39) and Tony Parker (33), while Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge took charge. Despite finishing with a stellar 67-15 record and securing the 2nd seed in the Western Conference, the Spurs faced a formidable challenge in the playoffs, ultimately falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a hard-fought 6-game series in the Western Conference Semifinals.

5. 2007-08 Boston Celtics

ORTG: 110.2

DRTG: 98.9

Net Rating: +11.2

Record: 66-16 (1st In Eastern Conference)

Result: Won NBA Finals (4-2 vs. Los Angeles Lakers)

The 2007-08 Boston Celtics underwent a transformative season with the acquisition of superstars Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen to join Paul Pierce. This Big Three immediately made an impact, leading the Celtics to an impressive regular-season record of 66-16. With an ORTG of 110.2 and a DRTG of 98.9, the Celtics proved to be a force on both ends of the court and they were bolstered by the presence of Rajon Rondo, Kendrick Perkins, James Posey, and Eddie House.

Their postseason journey was nothing short of spectacular, culminating in an NBA Finals victory over Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in a thrilling 4-2 series. The Celtics’ combination of star power, depth, and unselfish play epitomized championship-caliber basketball, earning them a well-deserved place among the NBA’s greatest teams.

6. 1991-92 Chicago Bulls

ORTG: 115.5

DRTG: 104.5

Net Rating: +11.0

Record: 67-15 (1st In Eastern Conference)

Result: Won NBA Finals (4-2 vs. Portland Trail Blazers)

The 1991-92 Chicago Bulls, led by the dynamic duo of Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, continued to establish their dominance in the NBA after winning the NBA championship a year prior. With an ORTG of 115.5 and a DRTG of 104.5, the Bulls showcased their ability to score at will while maintaining a strong defensive presence. Their cohesive team chemistry and relentless competitive spirit were evident throughout the season as Phil Jackson made sure to utilize his stars well.

The Bulls’ regular-season performance translated into a 67-15 record and a 1st place finish in the Eastern Conference. Their playoff journey culminated in an NBA Finals victory over the Portland Trail Blazers in a hard-fought 4-2 series, with Jordan earning Finals MVP honors by posting 35.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game against Clyde Drexler.

7. 1970-71 Milwaukee Bucks

ORTG: 103.9

DRTG: 93.1

Net Rating: +10.8

Record: 66-16 (1st In Western Conference)

Result: Won NBA Finals (4-0 vs. Baltimore Bullets)

The 1970-71 Milwaukee Bucks, led by the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (then known as Lew Alcindor) and Oscar Robertson, dominated the NBA with their exceptional play on both ends of the court. With an ORTG of 103.9 and a stifling DRTG of 93.1, the Bucks showcased their balanced approach to the game, emphasizing scoring efficiency and defensive discipline.

Their regular-season dominance translated into a stellar 66-16 record and a 1st place finish in the Western Conference. The Bucks continued their strong performance in the playoffs, sweeping the Baltimore Bullets in the NBA Finals with a commanding 4-0 series victory. Superstar center Abdul-Jabbar averaged 27.0 points and 18.5 rebounds per game to win Finals MVP and cap off an all-time great season.

8. 2015-16 Golden State Warriors

ORTG: 114.5

DRTG: 103.8

Net Rating: +10.7

Record: 73-9 (1st In Western Conference)

Result: Lost In NBA Finals (3-4 vs. Cleveland Cavaliers)

The 2015-16 Golden State Warriors captivated basketball fans with their electrifying style of play, led by the “Splash Brothers” Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, along with Draymond Green. The Warriors set a new NBA record with a remarkable 73-9 regular-season record, and Stephen Curry became the first unanimous MVP award winner in NBA history by averaging 30.1 points per game on 45.4% shooting from three.

Despite their historic regular-season performance and a 1st place finish in the Western Conference, the Warriors faced a tough challenge in the NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, ultimately falling in a thrilling 7-game series due to an incredible 3-1 comeback by LeBron James and Kyrie Irving’s side.

9. 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers

ORTG: 103.1

DRTG: 92.6

Net Rating: +10.5

Record: 69-13 (1st In Western Conference)

Result: Won NBA Finals (4-1 vs. New York Knicks)

The 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers, featuring Hall of Famers Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, and Gail Goodrich, showcased a blend of individual talent and team chemistry that propelled them to greatness. With an ORTG of 103.1 and a DRTG of 92.6, the Lakers excelled on both offense and defense, posting an impressive 69-13 regular-season record. In terms of the greatest teams in history, the 1971-72 Lakers need to be mentioned a lot more than they do.

Their regular-season dominance carried over into the playoffs, where they defeated the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals with a convincing 4-1 series victory. The Lakers’ combination of star power, depth, and unselfish play defined them as one of the NBA’s all-time great teams, leaving a lasting legacy in basketball history, especially since this season marked Jerry West’s first and only championship win.

10. 2014-15 Golden State Warriors

ORTG: 111.6

DRTG: 101.4

Net Rating: +10.2

Record: 67-15 (1st In Western Conference)

Result: Won NBA Finals (4-2 vs. Cleveland Cavaliers)

The 2014-15 Golden State Warriors marked the start of a new dynasty, as Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green led the team to success in the regular season and playoffs. Armed with plenty of star power and role players such as eventual Finals MVP Andre Iguodala, Harrison Barnes, and Shaun Livingston, the Warriors took on LeBron James and the Cavaliers in the Finals and won.

Benefitting from key injuries to Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love, the Warriors won the Finals in six games to cap off a historic season that saw Stephen Curry win the regular-season MVP award. While the Kevin Durant-led Warriors receive more praise for being an all-time great team, let’s not forget how great the 2014-15 Warriors were.

2023-24 Boston Celtics Currently Have 3rd Highest Net Rating Ever But Season Is Not Yet Done

ORTG: 122.6

DRTG: 110.6

Net Rating: +12.0

Record: 60-16 (1st In Eastern Conference)

Result: TBD

The 2023-24 Boston Celtics are on the best start possible to potentially capturing an NBA title at the end of the year. Ranking second in PPG (121.0) and fifth in OPPG (109.3), the Celtics have been transformed by management’s moves to acquire Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis to add to the core of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Currently, there isn’t a better team in the NBA.

Whether the Celtics can get over the hump and win an NBA title remains to be seen because they have failed in the last two seasons by losing in the Finals in 2022 and falling in the Eastern Conference Finals in 2023. Armed with elite scorers and defenders, the Celtics do not have an excuse not to win a ring this year, regardless of who they come up against. As soon as the regular season finishes, it is likely the Celtics will finish with the third-highest Net Rating ever.