The Last Time Every NBA Team Got Swept In The Playoffs
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In the NBA playoffs, the stakes are sky-high and the pressure is immense. While every team dreams of hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy, many instead face the harsh reality of being swept out of contention. A series sweep in the playoffs not only ends a team’s season abruptly but also leaves a mark that can influence future decisions and team dynamics.
This retrospective takes a closer look at the last time each NBA team found themselves on the unfortunate end of a playoff sweep, exploring the key players involved, pivotal moments, and the aftermath that followed each series. From unexpected defeats to dominant displays by powerhouse teams, these sweeps provide valuable lessons and sometimes serve as a catalyst for significant changes within franchises.
Atlanta Hawks – 2016
The Atlanta Hawks had a tough outing in the 2016 playoffs, getting swept in the Eastern Conference Semifinals by the Cleveland Cavaliers, who eventually went on to win the NBA Championship. The Cavs’ star-studded lineup, led by LeBron James, was in full throttle, overpowering the Hawks in every game. For Atlanta, Paul Millsap stood out, averaging 15.5 points and 9.0 rebounds per game during the series, but his efforts were not enough to stave off the sweeps. The primary reason behind Atlanta’s quick exit was their inability to match Cleveland’s high-scoring offense, especially from the three-point line, where the Cavs excelled remarkably.
The 2016 sweep was a wake-up call for the Hawks, highlighting the need for strategic changes and roster adjustments. The following season saw them making moves to improve their depth and defensive capabilities. However, replicating the same level of success from their 60-win season in 2015 proved challenging. The 2016 sweep remains a painful reminder for the Hawks of the gap between being a good team and a championship-contending team.
Boston Celtics – 2015
In 2015, the Boston Celtics, a team filled with young talents and burgeoning prospects, faced a daunting task in the Eastern Conference First Round against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The matchup ended swiftly, with the Celtics getting swept 4-0. Isaiah Thomas, who was emerging as a key player for Boston, performed admirably, averaging 17.5 points per game. Despite his efforts, the Celtics were outclassed by a more experienced Cavaliers team led by LeBron James.
The sweep was largely attributed to Boston’s lack of playoff experience and depth to withstand the Cavaliers’ aggressive play and strategic execution. The sweep served as a critical learning experience for the Celtics’ young roster and management. It underscored the need for acquiring veteran presence and enhancing team chemistry. Over the next few seasons, Boston focused on building a more balanced team capable of competing at the highest levels.
Brooklyn Nets – 2023
In the 2023 Eastern Conference First Round, the Brooklyn Nets faced a tough opponent in the Philadelphia 76ers and were swept in four games. The Nets struggled to contain the 76ers’ star center, Joel Embiid, who dominated the series averaging 30.2 points and 11.3 rebounds per game.
On the Nets’ side, their best performer was Mikal Bridges, who stepped up and averaged 21.6 points per game, showcasing his ability to perform under playoff pressure. However, the team overall struggled with cohesion and defensive assignments, which was evident in their inability to slow down Philadelphia’s offense.
Charlotte Hornets – 2014
In 2014, the Charlotte Hornets (then Bobcats) faced the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference First Round and were quickly ousted in a 4-0 sweep. The Hornets’ top performer, Al Jefferson, despite a lingering foot injury, averaged 18.7 points and 9.3 rebounds per game, but the team struggled to support his efforts effectively.
The Heat, led by LeBron James’ 30 points per game on 56% shooting, exploited Charlotte’s defensive weaknesses, particularly in perimeter defense and transition play. The sweep underscored the gap between the Hornets and the top-tier teams, prompting them to initiate a multi-year rebuilding phase focused on acquiring versatile talents that is still ongoing after Kemba Walker left the franchise.
Chicago Bulls – 1987
The Chicago Bulls’ 1987 playoff journey was brief yet historic, as they were swept in the Eastern Conference First Round by the Boston Celtics. Despite the sweep, Michael Jordan’s legendary performance, where he averaged 43.7 points per game including a playoff record 63 points in Game 2, showcased his extraordinary talent. The Celtics, with a more balanced and experienced roster, averaged a shooting efficiency of 51% from the field, which overwhelmed the Bulls’ defense.
This series was a turning point for the Bulls, highlighting the urgent need for a stronger supporting cast around Jordan. The front office took this to heart, gradually assembling a team that could leverage Jordan’s skills and eventually dominate the NBA.
Cleveland Cavaliers – 2018
The Cleveland Cavaliers were swept in the 2018 NBA Finals by the Golden State Warriors. LeBron James, in what would be his final series with Cleveland before moving to the Lakers, averaged 34.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 10.0 assists per game in the Finals.
The Warriors, led by Finals MVP Kevin Durant who averaged 28.8 points per game, clinched their third title in four years. After the sweep, the Cavaliers entered a rebuilding phase, significantly impacted by LeBron’s departure, leading to a dismal 19-63 record in the following season.
Dallas Mavericks – 2012
In the 2012 Western Conference First Round, the Dallas Mavericks were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder, just a year after their 2011 Championship win. Dirk Nowitzki tried to carry his team, averaging 26.8 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, but the Mavericks struggled against the younger Thunder, who were led by Kevin Durant’s 29.5 points per game.
The sweep led to a significant roster overhaul in the offseason as Dallas aimed to rejuvenate its aging squad, but the team failed to make the playoffs again until the 2013-14 season and only won a playoff series ten years later, as the Mavs reached the Western Conference Finals against the Warriors in 2022.
Denver Nuggets – 2021
The Denver Nuggets faced a tough exit in the 2021 Western Conference Semifinals, getting swept by the Phoenix Suns. Nikola Jokić, despite his MVP performance averaging 25.0 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game in the series, couldn’t overcome the absence of injured star Jamal Murray.
The Suns, on their part, had a standout performance from Chris Paul, averaging 25.5 points and 10.3 assists per game. This sweep didn’t deter Denver; they made strategic adjustments and roster improvements in the offseason. Although they returned stronger in the next regular season, they faced an early exit in the playoffs as Jamal Murray was still injured, but last season managed to capture their first-ever championship.
Detroit Pistons – 2019
The Detroit Pistons were swept by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2019 Eastern Conference First Round. Blake Griffin, struggling with a knee injury, managed to average 24.5 points in the two games he played. The Bucks, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 26.3 points and 12.0 rebounds per game, dominated the series.
This defeat highlighted Detroit’s need for a rebuild, prompting a focus on drafting and developing young talent. The following season saw the Pistons with one of the worst records, as they began laying the groundwork for a long-term rebuild.
Golden State Warriors – 1994
The Golden State Warriors were swept by the Phoenix Suns in the 1994 Western Conference First Round. Chris Webber, in his rookie season, averaged 18.0 points and 12.0 rebounds per game, but it wasn’t enough against Charles Barkley and the Suns.
Barkley averaged 27.6 points and 14.0 rebounds per game, showcasing his dominance. The sweep led to significant changes for the Warriors, including trading away Webber, which dramatically altered the team’s trajectory over the next few seasons.
Houston Rockets – 1996
In the 1996 Western Conference Semifinals, the Houston Rockets were swept by the Seattle SuperSonics. Hakeem Olajuwon averaged 21.0 points and 9.0 rebounds per game, but the Rockets couldn’t contain Shawn Kemp, who averaged 24.0 points and 10.0 rebounds per game.
The sweep was a significant setback for the defending NBA champions, who had won back-to-back titles in 1994 and 1995. This series marked the end of their championship era, leading to eventual roster and management changes in the following years.
Indiana Pacers – 2020
The Indiana Pacers were swept by the Miami Heat in the 2020 Eastern Conference First Round. T.J. Warren, who had a breakout performance in the NBA Bubble, led the Pacers with 20.0 points per game as the team’s main star Domantas Sabonis had suffered an injury.
However, the Heat’s balanced attack, led by Goran Dragic’s 22.8 points per game, proved too much. The sweep underscored the Pacers’ need for strategic changes, which led to the hiring of a new head coach in the offseason. The next year, the Pacers struggled with injuries and internal challenges, failing to make a significant playoff impact still.
Los Angeles Clippers – 2012
The Los Angeles Clippers were swept by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2012 Western Conference Semifinals. Despite strong performances from Chris Paul, who averaged 12.8 points and 9.3 assists per game, the Clippers could not withstand the Spurs’ team-oriented play, with Tony Parker leading San Antonio with 22.3 points and 6.5 assists per game. This series highlighted the Clippers’ need for more depth and defensive strength, prompting them to make significant roster changes in the following seasons to build a more balanced team.
Los Angeles Lakers – 2023
The Los Angeles Lakers faced a tough defeat in the 2023 Western Conference Finals, getting swept by the Denver Nuggets. LeBron James led the Lakers with an average of 25.0 points and 8.0 rebounds per game, but the team struggled to support his efforts consistently. The Nuggets, powered by Nikola Jokić’s commanding performances of 29.3 points and 13.5 rebounds per game, dominated the series. This sweep led the Lakers to reevaluate their roster composition, focusing on acquiring younger, more dynamic players to blend with their veteran core for the future.
Memphis Grizzlies – 2016
In the 2016 Western Conference First Round, the Memphis Grizzlies were swept by the San Antonio Spurs. The Grizzlies, plagued by injuries to key players like Marc Gasol, struggled throughout the series. Zach Randolph tried to carry the load, averaging 13.0 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. The Spurs, with Kawhi Leonard averaging 21.5 points and 2.8 steals per game, were defensively too strong. Following the sweep, Memphis focused on building a more resilient and deeper squad to avoid such vulnerabilities in the future.
Miami Heat – 2021
The Miami Heat were swept by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2021 Eastern Conference First Round, a stark contrast to their Finals run the previous season. Jimmy Butler averaged 14.5 points per game, a significant drop from his usual performance, as the Heat struggled offensively throughout the series. The Bucks, with Giannis Antetokounmpo averaging 23.5 points and 15.0 rebounds per game, showcased their defensive improvements.
After being swept in the 2021 playoffs, the Miami Heat made significant roster changes to strengthen their team. They acquired Kyle Lowry in a sign-and-trade deal from the Toronto Raptors to bolster their backcourt, providing a veteran presence and additional playmaking ability alongside Jimmy Butler.
Milwaukee Bucks – 2013
The Milwaukee Bucks were swept by the Miami Heat in the 2013 Eastern Conference First Round. Monta Ellis led the Bucks with an average of 14.3 points per game, but they were no match for the Heat’s high-powered offense led by LeBron James, who averaged 24.5 points per game. This series exposed the Bucks’ need for a franchise player, leading to a strategic shift that eventually paved the way for drafting and developing Giannis Antetokounmpo into an MVP. The Bucks used this defeat to recalibrate their approach, focusing on youth development and long-term growth.
Minnesota Timberwolves – 2002
The Minnesota Timberwolves were swept by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2002 Western Conference First Round. Kevin Garnett was the standout for Minnesota, averaging 24.0 points and 18.7 rebounds per game, demonstrating his dominance even in the face of defeat. The Mavericks, with Dirk Nowitzki leading the charge, averaged 33.3 points per game in the series. This early exit prompted the Timberwolves to reassess their roster needs around Garnett, leading to significant changes aimed at deepening their playoff runs in subsequent years.
New Orleans Pelicans – 2024
Just a few days ago, the New Orleans Pelicans were swept in the 2024 Western Conference First Round by the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Pelicans struggled to find an answer for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who led the Thunder with an average of 27.1 points per game. Despite efforts from Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, the Pelicans could not overcome the Thunder’s dynamic offense and tight defense. This recent sweep will likely lead to a critical evaluation of their defensive strategies and roster adjustments in the upcoming offseason.
New York Knicks – 2011
In the 2011 Eastern Conference First Round, the New York Knicks faced a sweep at the hands of the Boston Celtics. Amar’e Stoudemire led the Knicks with 14.5 points per game, hampered by back issues. The Celtics, with a veteran core of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Kevin Garnett, showcased their playoff experience and depth. This series loss spurred the Knicks to pursue additional star power, which eventually led them to acquire Tyson Chandler in the offseason to bolster their defense and complement their scoring talents.
Oklahoma City Thunder – 1989
In 1989, the team then known as the Seattle SuperSonics (later to become the Oklahoma City Thunder) was swept in the Western Conference Semifinals by the Los Angeles Lakers. The SuperSonics, led by Xavier McDaniel’s 21.0 points per game, could not keep pace with the Lakers’ high-powered offense. The Lakers, with Magic Johnson at the helm, showcased their championship pedigree. The sweep highlighted the need for Seattle to build a more robust supporting cast, setting the stage for future successes in the 1990s.
Orlando Magic – 2007
The Orlando Magic were swept by the Detroit Pistons in the 2007 Eastern Conference First Round. Dwight Howard was a bright spot for Orlando, averaging 17.5 points and 14.8 rebounds per game, but the team lacked the depth to challenge the experienced Pistons. Detroit’s balanced attack was too much for the young Magic squad. Following this series, Orlando was motivated to strengthen their roster, which led to the acquisition of key role players and an eventual appearance in the NBA Finals two years later.
Philadelphia 76ers – 2020
The Philadelphia 76ers were swept by the Boston Celtics in the 2020 Eastern Conference First Round. Joel Embiid averaged 30.0 points and 12.3 rebounds per game, but without Ben Simmons, who was out due to knee surgery, the 76ers lacked sufficient firepower and defensive versatility. The Celtics took advantage of Philadelphia’s weakened perimeter defense, with Jayson Tatum averaging 27.0 points per game. Post-sweep, the 76ers made significant changes, including hiring Doc Rivers as head coach and reconfiguring their front office, setting a new direction for the franchise.
Phoenix Suns – 2024
Recently, the Phoenix Suns were unexpectedly swept in the 2024 Western Conference First Round by the Minnesota Timberwolves, despite having a star-studded lineup including Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. The Timberwolves’ aggressive defense and strategic play-calling limited Durant to 26.8 points per game, below his season average. This stunning upset highlighted potential chemistry issues and defensive vulnerabilities for Phoenix, likely prompting a reevaluation of their strategic approach and possibly some roster tweaks in the offseason.
Portland Trail Blazers – 2019
The Portland Trail Blazers reached the 2019 Western Conference Finals only to be swept by the Golden State Warriors. Damian Lillard faced constant double teams and managed 22.3 points per game, well below his regular-season average. The Warriors’ experience and depth proved overwhelming, especially with Stephen Curry averaging 36.5 points per game. Following the sweep, Portland aimed to build a deeper roster around Lillard, focusing on acquiring players that could relieve his scoring burden and enhance the team’s defensive stature.
Sacramento Kings – 2001
In the 2001 Western Conference Semifinals, the Sacramento Kings were swept by the Los Angeles Lakers. Chris Webber led the Kings with averages of 24.0 points and 10.3 rebounds per game, but the Lakers’ duo of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant proved too dominant. This series underscored the Kings’ need for more defensive strength and clutch performance ability, which they sought to address in subsequent seasons, setting the stage for their memorable and contentious playoff runs against the Lakers in the early 2000s.
San Antonio Spurs – 2017
The San Antonio Spurs were swept in the 2017 Western Conference Finals by the Golden State Warriors. The Spurs were severely handicapped by the injury to Kawhi Leonard in Game 1, after which they couldn’t recover. Without Leonard, the Spurs lacked the defensive acumen and offensive firepower to challenge the Warriors, who were led by Kevin Durant’s 28.0 points per game. Following the sweep, the Spurs faced a period of transition, focusing on integrating younger talents and managing the eventual departures of their veteran core.
Toronto Raptors – 2018
The Toronto Raptors were swept in the 2018 Eastern Conference Semifinals by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite a stellar regular season that saw them finish as the top seed in the East, the Raptors, led by DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry, struggled significantly.
DeRozan averaged 21.0 points per game in the series but was overshadowed by LeBron James’ dominant 34.0 points per game. This series led to significant changes for the Raptors, including the controversial trade of DeRozan for Kawhi Leonard, which ultimately propelled them to their first NBA Championship the following year.
Utah Jazz – 2017
The Utah Jazz faced a tough opponent in the 2017 Western Conference Semifinals, getting swept by the Golden State Warriors. Gordon Hayward was the top performer for Utah, averaging 24.4 points per game, but the Jazz were unable to contend with the Warriors’ offensive firepower and strategic defense.
The Warriors, on their way to another NBA title, were led by Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, who averaged 24.5 and 25.5 points per game, respectively. The Jazz used this series as a learning experience to further develop their core and improve their roster depth in subsequent seasons.
Washington Wizards – 2007
The Washington Wizards were swept by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2007 Eastern Conference First Round. The Wizards were handicapped by the absence of their star, Gilbert Arenas, due to injury, leaving Antawn Jamison to lead with an average of 32.0 points per game.
LeBron James, with 27.8 points per game, guided the Cavaliers through the series. The sweep underscored the Wizards’ need for a more robust supporting cast and better injury management. This loss initiated a series of reevaluations aimed at building a more resilient and competitive team in Washington.