Ranking The Most Entertaining NBA Finals In The Last 10 Years From 2015 To 2024

When we talk about epic NBA Finals, the 2016 showdown between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors is right at the top. This series had everything you could ask for in a basketball drama.

The Warriors were the favorites, coming off a record-breaking 73-win season. They looked unstoppable, and when they took a 3-1 lead in the series, it seemed like a done deal. But LeBron James and the Cavs had other plans.

LeBron, with some legendary performances, and Kyrie Irving, with one of the most clutch shots in NBA history, led the Cavaliers to an incredible comeback. Game 5 saw LeBron and Kyrie both drop 41 points, and by Game 7, the series was anyone's game. The final game was a nail-biter, with LeBron's iconic block on Andre Iguodala and Kyrie's dagger three-pointer sealing the deal for Cleveland.

This Finals had it all: a historic comeback, unforgettable moments, and a legacy-defining performance by LeBron. It was the Cavs' first-ever championship and one of the most thrilling series we've ever seen.

2. Milwaukee Bucks vs. Phoenix Suns 4-2 (2021 NBA Finals)

The 2021 NBA Finals between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Phoenix Suns was another unforgettable series that had fans buzzing. This one wasn't just about the games but also the incredible storylines and individual performances that defined the series.

The Suns, led by Chris Paul and Devin Booker, jumped out to a 2-0 lead, and it looked like Phoenix might cruise to their first-ever championship. But then Giannis Antetokounmpo happened. The Greek Freak put on one of the most dominant performances in Finals history, showing why he's one of the best players in the world.

Giannis was an absolute beast, capped off by his legendary 50-point performance in Game 6 to clinch the title for Milwaukee. It was his iconic "block" in Game 4 and the insane alley-oop dunk in Game 5 that became instant classics, showing his defensive and offensive prowess.

The Bucks' comeback was all about heart and determination, overcoming the odds and proving their critics wrong. Giannis' performance solidified his status as an all-time great, and the series was a rollercoaster of emotions that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.

3. Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 4-2 (2015 NBA Finals)

The 2015 NBA Finals marked the beginning of the Golden State Warriors' dynasty and showcased the rise of Stephen Curry and the "Splash Brothers" brand of basketball. Facing off against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, this series was packed with drama, standout performances, and a new era of basketball.

LeBron was a one-man wrecking crew for the Cavs, putting up incredible numbers despite the absence of key teammates Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love due to injuries. He led the Cavs to an early 2-1 series lead, seemingly willing his team to compete against the heavily favored Warriors.

However, the Warriors, under first-year head coach Steve Kerr, adjusted and showed why they were the best team in the league that year. Curry's three-point shooting, combined with the emergence of Andre Iguodala—who would go on to win Finals MVP—proved to be too much for the shorthanded Cavs.

Game 5 and Game 6 saw Golden State's depth and versatility come to the forefront. Iguodala's defensive effort on LeBron, combined with timely contributions from Draymond Green and Klay Thompson, sealed the deal for the Warriors. This series not only crowned the Warriors as champions but also signaled the start of a new era dominated by three-point shooting and fast-paced play.

4. Toronto Raptors vs. Golden State Warriors 4-2 (2019 NBA Finals)

The 2019 NBA Finals were a historic and thrilling series that saw the Toronto Raptors win their first-ever championship, dethroning the Golden State Warriors. This Finals had everything: high stakes, dramatic moments, and a changing of the guard in the NBA landscape.

The Raptors, led by Kawhi Leonard, were up against a Warriors team that was looking to win their third consecutive title. However, the Warriors were plagued by injuries throughout the series. Kevin Durant, who had been a key player for the Warriors, ruptured his Achilles in Game 5, and Klay Thompson tore his ACL in Game 6. Despite these setbacks, the Warriors fought valiantly, with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green leading the charge.

Kawhi Leonard was a force of nature throughout the series, delivering clutch performances and showing why he is one of the best two-way players in the league. His leadership and scoring, along with key contributions from players like Kyle Lowry, Pascal Siakam, and Fred VanVleet, propelled the Raptors to a 4-2 series victory.

Game 6 in Oracle Arena was particularly memorable, as the Raptors closed out the series with a gritty win on the Warriors' home court. Leonard's performance earned him Finals MVP honors and his calm demeanor and clutch play became defining moments of his career.

The 2019 Finals were significant not only because of Toronto's triumph but also because it marked the end of the Warriors' dynasty as we knew it. The series was a mix of high drama, incredible performances, and a historic breakthrough for the Raptors and their fans.

5. Golden State Warriors vs. Boston Celtics 4-2 (2022 NBA Finals)

The 2022 NBA Finals saw the Golden State Warriors return to the pinnacle of basketball by defeating the Boston Celtics 4-2, solidifying their dynasty with their fourth championship in eight years. This series had a mix of redemption, emerging stars, and the clash of two storied franchises.

The Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, faced off against a young and hungry Celtics team featuring Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Marcus Smart. The series was a back-and-forth battle, with the Celtics initially looking strong and taking a 2-1 lead after a dominant Game 3 performance in Boston.

However, the Warriors, with their championship experience, bounced back. Stephen Curry delivered an iconic performance in Game 4, scoring 43 points and dragging his team to victory on the road, tying the series 2-2. This game was pivotal, showcasing Curry's brilliance and silencing any doubts about his Finals credentials.

Golden State's defense, led by Draymond Green and Andrew Wiggins, tightened up, and their offense, with contributions from Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole, found its rhythm. The Warriors took Game 5 at home, setting up a crucial Game 6 in Boston.

In Game 6, Curry once again shone brightly, scoring 34 points and securing the Finals MVP award for the first time in his career. The Warriors' experience and composure were evident as they closed out the series in Boston, celebrating their return to glory.

This Finals series was entertaining because it highlighted the resilience of the Warriors and the potential of the Celtics. It was a perfect blend of past champions reclaiming their throne and young stars proving they belonged on the big stage.

6. Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 4-1 (2017 NBA Finals)

The 2017 NBA Finals were a highly anticipated rematch between the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers, marking the third consecutive year these two powerhouses faced off for the championship. With both teams boasting star-studded rosters, the series promised high-octane action and did not disappoint.

The Warriors, bolstered by the addition of Kevin Durant, were an offensive juggernaut. Durant's presence added a new dimension to Golden State's already potent lineup featuring Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. From the get-go, the Warriors dominated, showcasing their firepower and fluid team play.

Golden State jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the series, with Durant delivering exceptional performances, including a pivotal Game 3 where he scored 31 points, hitting a clutch three-pointer over LeBron James in the closing moments. This shot was one of the defining moments of the series, symbolizing the shift in power.

LeBron James and the Cavaliers, despite their best efforts, struggled to keep pace with the Warriors' relentless offense. LeBron averaged a triple-double for the series, putting up staggering numbers and demonstrating why he's considered one of the greatest players of all time. Kyrie Irving also had standout performances, but it wasn't enough to overcome Golden State's depth and firepower.

The Cavaliers managed to win Game 4 in Cleveland, avoiding the sweep with a gritty performance. However, the Warriors closed out the series in Game 5 back in Oakland, with Durant capping off his Finals MVP performance by scoring 39 points.

The 2017 Finals were entertaining not just because of the high level of basketball but also due to the star power and narratives. Durant's move to Golden State was vindicated, as he played a crucial role in the Warriors' triumph. The series was a showcase of elite talent and set the stage for ongoing debates about superteams and competitive balance in the NBA.

7. Denver Nuggets vs. Miami Heat 4-1 (2023 NBA Finals)

The 2023 NBA Finals featured a compelling matchup between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat, bringing together two teams with very different paths to the championship series. The Nuggets, led by MVP Nikola Jokić, were seeking their first-ever NBA title, while the Heat, guided by the relentless Jimmy Butler, came straight from the Play-In Tournament in a stunning run across the East.

From the outset, the Nuggets displayed their dominance. Jokić, with his unique blend of size, skill, and court vision, orchestrated the Denver offense with surgical precision. Alongside Jamal Murray, who provided crucial scoring and playmaking, the Nuggets looked formidable. They quickly took control of the series, jumping out to a 3-1 lead.

The Heat, known for their gritty, never-say-die attitude, fought hard in each game. Butler delivered passionate performances, and Bam Adebayo's defensive prowess was on full display. Miami managed to steal Game 2, showcasing their resilience and making the series slightly more competitive.

However, the Nuggets were simply too strong. In Game 5, back in Denver, they sealed the deal with a commanding performance. Jokić's triple-double and Murray's scoring outburst ensured that the Nuggets would not let the opportunity slip away. The 2023 Finals MVP, Nikola Jokić, capped off an extraordinary postseason run with yet another stellar game, leading Denver to a 4-1 series victory.

This Finals series, while not extending to seven games, was entertaining because of the individual brilliance on display and the contrasting styles of the two teams. The Nuggets' efficient, high-powered offense clashed with the Heat's scrappy, defensive-minded approach, creating a fascinating narrative. Denver's first championship was a historic moment, marking the culmination of their rise in the NBA and solidifying Jokić's status as one of the game's greats.

8. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Miami Heat 4-2 (2020 NBA Finals)

The 2020 NBA Finals were unlike any other, set against the backdrop of the global pandemic and held in the NBA bubble in Orlando. The Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, faced off against the underdog Miami Heat, spearheaded by Jimmy Butler. Despite the unusual circumstances, this series delivered plenty of drama and memorable moments.

The Lakers, with their star power and depth, were the heavy favorites. LeBron James, seeking his fourth championship, and Anthony Davis, aiming for his first, formed a dominant duo. They quickly asserted their dominance, taking a 2-0 lead in the series.

Yet the Heat, known for their resilience and team-oriented play, refused to go quietly. Jimmy Butler put on a performance for the ages in Game 3, recording a 40-point triple-double to lead Miami to a crucial win. His grit and determination kept the Heat in the fight, even as they battled injuries to key players like Goran Dragić and Bam Adebayo.

The series saw incredible back-and-forth action, with the Lakers responding to every challenge Miami threw at them. Game 5 was particularly thrilling, with Butler and LeBron trading blows in a high-scoring duel that ended with the Heat narrowly avoiding elimination.

Ultimately, the Lakers' talent and experience proved too much for the Heat. In Game 6, the Lakers put on a defensive clinic, stifling Miami and cruising to a decisive victory. LeBron James was named Finals MVP, cementing his legacy with a triple-double performance in the clinching game.

9. Boston Celtics vs. Dallas Mavericks 4-1 (2024 NBA Finals)

The 2024 NBA Finals, featuring the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks, didn't exactly deliver the high-stakes drama that fans might have hoped for. Boston wrapped up the series in five games, taking a commanding 3-0 lead early on and never looking back.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown were the standout performers for the Celtics, with Brown ultimately earning Finals MVP honors. His consistent scoring and defensive play were crucial in Boston's success. Tatum also had his moments, but it was Brown's all-around game that stood out.

On the Mavericks' side, Luka Doncic did his best to keep things interesting. In Game 2, he posted an impressive triple-double with 32 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists, and 29 points in Game 4, helping Dallas avoid a sweep with a hard-fought victory. Doncic’s performance was a testament to his talent and determination, even if it wasn’t enough to turn the series around.

Jaylen Brown's best game came in Game 3, where he scored 30 points, grabbed 8 rebounds, and dished out 8 assists. His efficient shooting and tenacious defense set the tone for the Celtics, helping them secure a crucial win and solidify their dominance in the series.

Game 5, back in Boston, saw the Celtics close out the series comfortably. Brown led the way once again with a solid performance, supported by Tatum and the rest of the squad. The Mavericks couldn't muster enough offense to challenge Boston, and the Celtics' balanced attack and solid defense made the difference.

While this Finals series might not go down as one of the most thrilling, it showcased the Celtics' dominance and Brown's emergence as a key player on the big stage. It was a straightforward and efficient victory for Boston, marking their return to championship glory.

10. Golden State Warriors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 4-0 (2018 NBA Finals)

The 2018 NBA Finals saw the Golden State Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers face off for the fourth consecutive year, but this time, the series lacked the competitive edge of previous matchups. The Warriors swept the Cavaliers 4-0, showcasing their dominance and solidifying their dynasty.

Golden State, led by Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, was an offensive powerhouse. Their depth and versatility were on full display, making it incredibly difficult for Cleveland to keep up. Kevin Durant was particularly outstanding, earning Finals MVP honors for the second straight year. His performance in Game 3, where he scored 43 points and hit a dagger three-pointer late in the game, was a standout moment that effectively sealed the series.

LeBron James did everything he could for the Cavaliers, putting up heroic numbers throughout the series. In Game 1, he scored 51 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists in a performance that would have been legendary had the Cavs pulled out the win. However, a crucial mistake in the final seconds of regulation by J.R. Smith, followed by a Warriors overtime victory, set the tone for the rest of the series.

Despite LeBron's efforts, including a near triple-double in Game 2 and a strong performance in Game 4, the Cavaliers were no match for the Warriors' firepower. Golden State's ability to switch on defense, combined with their potent offense, made it nearly impossible for Cleveland to find any rhythm.

The 2018 Finals were a testament to the Warriors' dominance and the end of an era for the Cavaliers, as LeBron James would leave Cleveland for the Los Angeles Lakers in the offseason. While the series itself lacked suspense, it was memorable for the individual brilliance on display and the clear message it sent about the Warriors' place in NBA history.