Looking back at the 2021 NBA regular season schedule, I can’t help but marvel at how it all unfolded. The league decided to condense the season to 72 games instead of the usual 82, a move driven by the need to adjust after the pandemic-affected previous season. It had a significant impact on the overall rhythm, as teams and players had to adjust to a faster pace with less rest.
The Los Angeles Lakers had a particularly grueling schedule. Remember that game on February 5th, 2021? The Lakers played their fourth game in six nights, making one wonder about the toll on players’ bodies. LeBron James, 36 at the time, showed us longevity in the sport, but even he needed rest. His efficiency metrics, such as Player Efficiency Rating (PER), remained impressive despite the packed schedule. The grind of 72 games in roughly 150 days certainly tested every team’s depth and endurance.
With the introduction of the play-in tournament, the stakes got higher. Traditionally, the top eight teams from each conference would make it to the playoffs. However, the new format meant that teams placed 7th to 10th had to fight for the final two playoff spots. This shift added a layer of excitement, but also pressure. Teams like the Golden State Warriors, who finished 8th, had to go through the play-in games to secure their playoff berth. This new format undoubtedly increased viewership and fan engagement, as every game had a playoff-like intensity.
The regular season witnessed some remarkable individual performances as well. Stephen Curry, for instance, had fans on their feet with his scoring outbursts, including a 62-point game against the Portland Trail Blazers. It was a testament to his offensive prowess and the resilience required during a condensed season. His shooting percentages, especially from beyond the arc, kept us all amazed.
Then there were teams like the Brooklyn Nets, who assembled a powerhouse roster with Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden. Injuries and COVID-19 protocols meant that the trio played only a handful of games together during the regular season. The Nets’ offensive rating, when all three stars were on the court, was off the charts. However, their lack of continuity posed questions about their playoff readiness.
What about the impact of COVID-19 on the schedule? More than a handful of games got postponed, causing a lot of reshuffling. Teams had to adapt on the fly, with some back-to-back games scheduled to make up for lost time. I remember reading a news article that highlighted how the Denver Nuggets had to play six games in nine nights at one point, a grueling stretch that put their stamina to the test.
The NBA players’ union and the league agreed on strict health protocols, but no system is foolproof. It was a season of flexibility and resilience. Players like Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics spoke publicly about the lingering effects of the virus on their performance. He mentioned needing an inhaler before games, something he never required pre-COVID.
The financial dynamics also shifted. With limited fan attendance early in the season, teams faced significant revenue drops. However, by the end, arenas started to see more fans, which somewhat boosted the bottom line. According to a report, the average cost of an NBA ticket during this period ranged from $51 to $89, depending on the market and team performance. This limited seating arrangement not only impacted the teams financially but also changed the game atmosphere.
The MVP race was another hot topic. Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets’ center, eventually won the award, making history as the lowest draft pick (41st overall) to ever be named MVP. His stats were undeniable—averaging 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game, all while maintaining superior efficiency. It was a season to remember for him, and his consistent performance highlighted the importance of durability and versatility in such a hectic schedule.
So, what stood out the most about the season for you? Was it the gripping race for the playoffs, or the individual heroics that kept us glued to our screens? Interestingly, the 2021 NBA regular season schedule truly captured the essence of professional basketball in a year overshadowed by unprecedented challenges.
The unique nature of this season makes it one for the history books. If you want to revisit specific game dates, results, or key moments, [here’s a detailed source](https://arenaplus.ph/) that covers the NBA regular season schedule 2021. Happy reminiscing!