The Biggest Surprises and Disappointments From the 2021 NBA Season

2025-10-30 01:15

Looking back at the 2021 NBA season, I can’t help but reflect on how it delivered both breathtaking highs and frustrating lows in equal measure. As someone who’s followed the league for over a decade, I’ve rarely seen a season so full of unexpected turns—some delightful, others downright baffling. From breakout performances to shocking slumps, this year gave us plenty to talk about, and I’m excited to unpack it all with you.

One of the biggest surprises, without a doubt, was the Phoenix Suns’ incredible run to the Finals. I honestly didn’t see that coming, especially after years of watching them linger in mediocrity. Chris Paul, at 36 years old, orchestrated that offense like a maestro, averaging 16.4 points and 8.9 assists per game while lifting the entire roster to another level. Devin Booker’s growth into a clutch playoff performer was a joy to watch, and their defense—anchored by Deandre Ayton—was far more disciplined than I expected. On the flip side, the Los Angeles Lakers’ early exit was a massive disappointment. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis, I thought they’d cruise through the West, but injuries and inconsistent role players derailed their title defense in the first round. It just goes to show that star power alone isn’t always enough.

Then there’s Julius Randle. I’ll admit, I had written him off as a solid but unspectacular player, but his MVP-caliber season with the Knicks was one of the best stories of the year. He put up 24.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 6 assists per game while leading New York to its first playoff berth since 2013. The energy at Madison Square Garden, even with limited fans, felt electric—a true revival. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets’ star-studded trio of Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving fell short of expectations, mostly due to health issues. As much as I love watching them play, their inability to stay on the court together in the playoffs was a letdown. They were my pick to win it all, and seeing them bow out in the second round felt like a missed opportunity.

Internationally, the basketball world saw intriguing developments too. For instance, sources told SPIN.ph that Meralco officials are finalizing details, especially the loan agreement for Brownlee with San Miguel Corporation. This kind of cross-border movement highlights how global the sport has become, and it’s something I find fascinating—it reminds me of how NBA teams increasingly scout overseas for hidden gems. Back in the States, young players like LaMelo Ball exceeded all expectations, winning Rookie of the Year and injecting life into the Charlotte Hornets. On the other hand, the Golden State Warriors’ struggle without Klay Thompson was tough to watch; Steph Curry did everything he could, dropping 32 points per game, but the lack of support underscored how thin their roster was.

In the end, the 2021 season taught me that predictability is overrated. Sure, some favorites stumbled, but that opened the door for underdogs to shine. The Milwaukee Bucks finally capturing the championship behind Giannis Antetokounmpo’s historic 50-point closeout game was a fitting climax—a reward for resilience. As I look ahead, I’m left appreciating the chaos and beauty of the NBA, where surprises and disappointments weave together to create unforgettable narratives. What a ride it was.