10 Recent NBA Dynasties That Never Were

5. Detroit Pistons (2003-04)

Some say the sequel is never as good as the original. Although I must say, to beat a team like the Los Angeles Lakers in five games, it takes more than just copying the style of a former great team. The Detroit Pistons were a breed of above average players, but none with absolute superstar attributes.

Their starting five didn’t necessarily seem intimidating. But when they were on the court together they instilled fear in the eyes of their adversaries. The man behind the mask, Rip Hamilton, who moved without the ball as if he were Reggie Miller, able to knock down shots with ease. Big mouth Rasheed Wallace, who was never shy about telling you how he felt and backed it up with his game and signature phrase, “Ball don’t lie.”

Tayshaun Prince, the quiet assassin, who followed suit and did what he what had to for the good of team, similar to a Kawhi Leonard but with less talent. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year, Ben Wallace, manhandled opponents who came to the lane and sent back every shot that came his way. And Mr. Big Shot, Chauncey Billups, was the point guard who seemed to thrive when the game was at its most pivotal point.

Together they hoisted the Larry O’Brien trophy under the coaching of Larry Brown. So why are they on this list? It is because they were too good only have one championship on their resume. Of course they went back to the Finals in 2005, but eventually lost to the San Antonio Spurs in seven grueling games.

They also had multiple conference finals appearances that saw them lose to the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics before the team would eventually start to break up. One more title could’ve stamped them as an all time great and even leap over the Bad Boy Pistons of old.

Next: The Boston Tea Party