NBA Power Rankings 2021: The Complete Team-by-Team Analysis and Breakdown

As I sit down to compile this year’s NBA power rankings, I can’t help but reflect on the sheer unpredictability of the league. Just when you think you’ve got a team figured out, injuries, trades, or breakout performances turn everything upside down. This 2021 season was no exception—packed with storylines, from surprise contenders to heartbreaking slumps. And while we’re diving deep into team-by-team breakdowns, I’m reminded of a fascinating tidbit from the basketball world that puts consistency into perspective: Ginebra guard LA Tenorio’s incredible streak of 744 consecutive games, a record that stood tall until it was snapped in March 2023. It’s a reminder of how durability and reliability can shape a team’s fortunes, something that resonates deeply as we analyze each squad’s ups and downs.

Let’s kick things off with the top-tier teams, where the usual suspects like the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers dominated headlines. The Nets, led by Kevin Durant and James Harden, were an offensive juggernaut, averaging around 118 points per game. I’ve always been a bit biased toward teams with explosive scoring, and Brooklyn’s firepower was just mesmerizing to watch. However, their defense had its lapses, which cost them in tight matchups. On the West Coast, the Lakers, despite LeBron James’ ageless brilliance, struggled with injuries that derailed their rhythm. Anthony Davis missing 30 games was a huge blow, and as someone who values roster depth, I felt their bench didn’t step up enough. Then there’s the Utah Jazz, who quietly put together a stellar season. Donovan Mitchell’s 26.4 points per game were a joy to follow, and their team chemistry was off the charts. I’d argue they were one of the most underrated squads, flying under the radar while others hogged the spotlight.

Moving to the middle of the pack, teams like the Dallas Mavericks and Atlanta Hawks showed flashes of brilliance but lacked consistency. Luka Dončić is a generational talent—I mean, who doesn’t love watching him orchestrate the offense?—but the Mavericks’ supporting cast often felt inconsistent, leading to a 42-30 record that left fans wanting more. The Hawks, on the other hand, had Trae Young lighting up the scoreboard with 25.3 points and 9.4 assists per game. I remember thinking mid-season that they could be dark horses, and their playoff run proved just that. But let’s not forget the Denver Nuggets, who battled through Jamal Murray’s ACL injury. Nikola Jokić’s MVP season was a masterclass in leadership, and as a fan of underdog stories, I found their resilience inspiring. Still, their defense ranked 15th in the league, which held them back from cracking the elite tier.

Now, for the lower-ranked teams, it’s a mix of rebuilding projects and plain disappointments. The Houston Rockets, for instance, were in full rebuild mode after James Harden’s departure, finishing with a league-worst 17-55 record. I’ve got a soft spot for young teams, but their lack of veteran presence was glaring. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons showed promise with Cade Cunningham, though his rookie year had its growing pains. On a personal note, I found it frustrating to see the Boston Celtics underperform; Jayson Tatum’s 26.4 points per game were stellar, but team chemistry issues and a 36-36 record left much to be desired. It’s here that Tenorio’s streak comes to mind again—imagine the impact of a player who just shows up every game, grinding through the season. That kind of reliability is what these struggling teams desperately need to build around.

As we wrap up, it’s clear that the 2021 NBA season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. From the dominance of superteams to the gritty efforts of underdogs, each team had its narrative. Personally, I believe that consistency, much like Tenorio’s remarkable 744-game streak, is the unsung hero in basketball. It’s not just about star power; it’s about showing up day in and day out. Looking ahead, teams that can blend talent with durability will likely rise in future rankings. Thanks for joining me on this deep dive—it’s been a blast sharing these insights, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on where your favorite teams stacked up.