Hoops Habit
Fansided

Every NBA Team’s Signature Season

By Duncan Smith

Feb 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts with forward Draymond Green (23) after making a three point shot against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts with forward Draymond Green (23) after making a three point shot against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Knicks, 1969-70
Record: 60-22
Won NBA championship

The New York Knicks got off to a blistering start in 1969-70, winning 26 of their first 28 games, and carried on that momentum on their way to an NBA championship.

Thanks to the efforts of Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, Dave DeBusschere and others, the Knicks battled their way through the playoffs, winning in the first round against the Baltimore Bullets in seven games, the second round against the Milwaukee Bucks in five games, and the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals in seven games.

Willis Reed won the NBA MVP award thanks to his 21.7 points and 13.1 rebounds per game, and was named Finals MVP behind the strength of an average of 23 points and 10.5 rebounds per game.

Not only did he produce statistically, but he provided his team a huge boost when he returned to the floor for Game 7 after tearing a muscle in his thigh in Game 5, causing him to miss Game 6.

Reed wouldn’t be deterred by his injury and he limped onto the floor just before tipoff to join his teammates. He scored just two baskets, but they were the first two of the game, and he fueled a frenzy for the Knicks.

Walt Frazier provided an all-time great performance in his stead with 36 points and 19 assists and the Knicks went on to win that decisive and historic Game 7 by a score of 113-99.

Next: New Orleans Pelicans