NBA 2021 Lineup Analysis: Which Teams Have the Best Starting Rosters?
As I sat down to analyze the NBA 2021 starting lineups, I couldn't help but reflect on how dramatically team compositions can shift within a single season. The reference material about the Beermen's journey particularly resonated with me - that constant shuffling of coaches, strategic trades to rejuvenate the roster, and the revolving door of imports mirrors what we've seen across several NBA franchises. Having followed the league for over fifteen years, I've developed a keen eye for what separates championship-caliber starting fives from merely good ones.
When we examine the Brooklyn Nets' starting roster, the numbers speak volumes about their offensive firepower. With Kevin Durant averaging 26.9 points per game, James Harden putting up 24.6 points, and Kyrie Irving contributing 26.9 points before his part-time status, this trio created the most potent offensive starting unit I've witnessed in recent memory. Their 118.3 offensive rating when all three started together was simply historic, though their defensive limitations ultimately proved their undoing in the playoffs. What fascinates me about their situation is how it parallels that Beermen scenario - bringing in new pieces, adjusting to different coaching philosophies, yet somehow maintaining elite production.
The Phoenix Suns presented a completely different blueprint for success. Chris Paul's arrival transformed them from playoff hopefuls to genuine contenders, and I'd argue their starting five had the best chemistry in the league. Devin Booker's 25.6 points per game don't fully capture his growth as a complete player, while Deandre Ayton's 14.4 points and 10.5 rebounds came with remarkable efficiency at 62.6% shooting. Their continuity and balanced approach reminded me of those fundamentally sound teams that might not have the biggest names but play beautiful, cohesive basketball.
Now, the Milwaukee Bucks deserve special attention because their starting lineup demonstrated that regular season success can translate to championships. Giannis Antetokounmpo's 28.1 points and 11 rebounds per game were spectacular, but what impressed me most was how Jrue Holiday's addition completed their starting unit defensively. Having watched countless games, I can confidently say Holiday's perimeter defense provided the missing piece that elevated them from very good to championship caliber. Their starting five outscored opponents by 8.3 points per 100 possessions, which might not sound dramatic but becomes significant over a full season and playoff run.
The Utah Jazz starting lineup was perhaps the most underappreciated unit last season. Donovan Mitchell's 26.4 points per game and Rudy Gobert's presence created an inside-out threat that few teams could counter during the regular season. Their net rating of 9.2 with the starting five on court was among the league's best, though I've always felt they lacked that extra gear come playoff time. Watching them reminded me that regular season dominance doesn't always translate, much like the Beermen's fluctuating fortunes despite roster changes.
What struck me about the Golden State Warriors was how their starting lineup evolved throughout the season. Stephen Curry's 32.0 points per game was otherworldly, but the supporting cast around him took time to gel. Draymond Green's 8.9 assists per game as a forward was revolutionary, and watching Andrew Wiggins develop into a reliable second option was one of the season's quiet surprises. Their situation mirrored the Beermen's "revolving door" scenario, particularly with James Wiseman's injury disrupting their frontcourt rotation.
The Philadelphia 76ers starting five built around Joel Embiid was particularly fascinating to analyze. Embiid's 28.5 points and 10.6 rebounds made him an MVP candidate, while Ben Simmons' defensive versatility created matchup nightmares. However, their offensive spacing issues became increasingly apparent in crucial moments. From my perspective, this highlighted how modern NBA starting lineups require every player to pose some offensive threat, something the 76ers struggled with consistently.
Looking at the Los Angeles Lakers, their starting lineup never quite found the rhythm many expected. LeBron James' 25.0 points and 7.7 rebounds were impressive for a 36-year-old, but injuries and roster fit issues plagued them all season. The Anthony Davis absence for 36 games particularly hurt their continuity, demonstrating how fragile even superstar-laden starting fives can be. Their experience reminded me that having big names doesn't guarantee success if the pieces don't fit properly.
After analyzing all these teams, I keep returning to the Milwaukee Bucks as having the most complete starting lineup. Their blend of offensive firepower, defensive versatility, and playoff-tested chemistry gave them the edge over more flashy alternatives. The Suns came close with their beautiful ball movement, while the Nets had unparalleled offensive talent but defensive concerns. What this exercise reinforced for me is that building the perfect starting five involves more than accumulating talent - it requires the right mix of skills, temperaments, and roles, much like the strategic rebuilding referenced in the Beermen scenario. The teams that understood this distinction were the ones that found genuine success last season.