NBA Stars Who Improved Their New Team Early In 1st Season

A notable period in both Magic Johnson’s career and the history of the team is his first NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1979–80. Magic Johnson was chosen first overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1979 NBA Draught. Johnson’s extraordinary skill and ability to have an instant influence on the Lakers were recognised by the organisation under the direction of Dr. Jerry Buss, the team’s owner, and Jerry West, the general manager.

Johnson’s entrance during his first campaign immediately transformed the Lakers. His remarkable passing abilities and capacity to elevate his teammates served as the cornerstone of the Lakers’ “Showtime” era. Paul Westhead, the NBA team’s head coach, encouraged the Lakers to adopt a quick-paced style of play that emphasised Johnson’s advantages. Johnson completely changed the team’s attacking strategy with his ability to drive the ball in transition and make accurate passes.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Jamaal Wilkes were already well-known names on the Lakers squad, so Johnson fit in with no problems. The Lakers were able to see Johnson’s outstanding performance and effects during the regular season. With his 18.0 PPG, 7.7 RPG, and 7.3 APG averages, he was named the NBA Rookie of the Year. With a 60-22 record, the Lakers were able to secure the top seed in the Western Conference thanks to his leadership and basketball acumen.

The Lakers beat the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Finals after winning the playoff series. But disaster struck in Game 5 of the Finals when Lakers centre Kareem Abdul-Jabbar hurt his ankle. Magic Johnson filled the role of centre for Game 6 since the Lakers were in need of one. Johnson displayed his flexibility and talent by playing all five positions during the game, making it one of the most memorable moments in NBA history. He led the Lakers to win the NBA title by scoring 42 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and making 7 assists.

Johnson became the first rookie in NBA history to win the NBA Finals MVP award because of his outstanding performance. Magic’s influence on an NBA stars new team was unquestionably so strong that no team has ever had a better debut season, which is why he is recognised as the best point guard of all time.

You might also be interested in reading this: Ranking 15 NBA Top Centers For The Season 2023–2024

2. Moses Malone (1983)

The Record before Moses Malone was acquired by the 76ers: 58-24

The Record after Moses Malone was acquired by the 76ers: 65-17

The Philadelphia 76ers were determined to put together a championship-caliber squad around their best player, Julius Erving, during the 1982 summer. To complement Erving’s diverse skill set and to increase their prospects of competing for an NBA title, they realised they needed a strong presence in the paint.

The 76ers were interested in Moses Malone, a highly respected centre who had just had an outstanding season with the Houston Rockets and had been named the league’s MVP. Malone was renowned for his extraordinary ability to grab rebounds, his scoring skills, and his work ethic. Malone was recruited by the 76ers as a free agent after they made him an alluring six-year deal, which was an unprecedented move as it avoided the typical trade procedure. The acquisition instantly established the 76ers as a formidable force and sent shockwaves around the league.

A “Big Four” was formed by the pairing of Malone and Erving, as well as the skilled supporting cast of Bobby Jones and Maurice Cheeks, who would dominate their opponents in the upcoming season. Malone displayed his extraordinary talent and made a significant contribution to the 76ers during the regular season in 1982–1983. He immediately made an impact with his imposing presence in the paint, aggressive rebounding, and scoring prowess. Malone was the league leader in rebounding with a staggering 15.3 RPG average, in addition to 24.5 PPG.

The 76ers concluded the regular season with an amazing 65-17 record, clinching the top seed in the Eastern Conference thanks to centre Karl Malone’s outstanding play and the leadership of head coach Billy Cunningham. The 76ers continued to rule during the postseason. Malone kept up his impressive play in the postseason, averaging 26.0 PPG and 15.8 RPG. The group got to the NBA Finals where they took on the Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar-led Los Angeles Lakers.

The 76ers trounced the Lakers in a comfortable four-game sweep in a hotly contested encounter. The key factors that made the difference were Malone’s domination in the paint, his scoring skill, and his ability to rebound. He was chosen as the NBA Finals MVP, confirming his position as one of the top players in the position and one of the best purchases ever.

3. Kawhi Leonard – Toronto Raptors (2019)

The Record before Kawhi Leonard was acquired by the Raptors: 59-23

The Record after Kawhi Leonard was acquired by the Raptors: 58-24

Kawhi Leonard was moved in a big deal from the San Antonio Spurs to the Toronto Raptors in the summer of 2018. After a difficult season in San Antonio that was ruined by injury and reports of problems with the organisation, Leonard, a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and previous NBA Finals MVP, looked for a change of scenery. The Raptors, under the direction of club president Masai Ujiri, saw an opportunity to add a star player and increase their chances of contending for the NBA title. In return for Leonard and Danny Green, the Spurs received star player DeMar DeRozan, Jakob Poeltl, and a protected first-round draught selection.

Despite rumours that Kawhi preferred Los Angeles to Toronto, the risk paid off. Leonard immediately established himself as a game-changing factor for the Raptors. His aggressive defence, scoring prowess, and composed on-court demeanour were the team’s key ingredients for success. By averaging 26.6 PPG, 7.3 RPG, and 3.3 APG while helping the Raptors to the second-best record in the Eastern Conference, he soon became the team’s go-to player and an elite performer in the league.

Leonard’s influence grew much greater throughout the postseason. He improved his performance, giving outstanding performances on both ends of the floor. His game-winning shot against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals went off the rim numerous times before falling in, making it one of the most memorable plays in NBA playoff history. The Raptors met the widely favoured Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals. In the series, Leonard continued to be unstoppable, averaging 28.5 PPG, 9.8 RPG, and 4.2 APG. The Raptors’ first-ever NBA title was won thanks to his dominating defence of the Warriors’ best players and his offensive contributions.

In addition to helping Toronto win its first NBA championship, Kawhi Leonard’s debut campaign with the Raptors solidified his place among the game’s top players. The team’s success was greatly influenced by his contributions on both ends of the court, his capacity to perform under pressure, and his leadership throughout the playoffs. Leonard’s time with the Raptors cemented his legacy in Toronto and made a lasting impression on the NBA stars new team and its supporters.

4. Kevin Durant – Golden State Warriors (2017)

The Record Before Kevin Durant was Acquired by The Warriors: 73-9

The Record After Kevin Durant was Acquired by The Warriors: 67-15

Kevin Durant signed with another team in the summer of 2016 after beginning his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder for the first nine seasons of his career. Many NBA stars new teams were interested in signing the great striker because they knew how versatile and good a scorer he was. The Golden State Warriors, who had just lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals, were one of the bidders.

Durant made his choice to join the Golden State Warriors officially on July 4, 2016. Durant’s choice to join a club that had just broken the regular-season wins record with 73 victories the season before ignited a heated discussion and criticism, as some saw it as a questionable move that may disturb the NBA’s competitive balance.

With Durant moving to Golden State, the team’s expectations have increased. The addition of a player of Durant’s calibre increased the Warriors’ already-proven explosive offence and oppressive defence, giving them unmatched offensive potency. Durant adapted to the Warriors’ system swiftly during the regular season, demonstrating his scoring power, flexibility, and capacity to work well with his new teammates. His offensive prowess was the ideal complement to the Warriors’ quick-paced, ball-moving offence, making it even more devastating.

The Warriors secured the top seed in the Western Conference after finishing the regular season with an astounding 67-15 record. Durant’s influence in the playoffs was apparent. His performances were typically outstanding, averaging 28.5 PPG, 7.9 RPG, and 4.3 APG. The Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers met in the NBA Finals, setting up a rematch of the championship series from the previous year. Durant’s outstanding performance during the Finals contributed significantly to the Warriors’ victory. He won the NBA Finals MVP title with his 35.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG, and 5.4 APG averages.

In the end, the Golden State Warriors overcame the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games to win their second NBA title in as many seasons. As he achieved his objective of winning an NBA championship, Durant’s choice to join the Warriors was validated, and his achievements were recognised.

5. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – Milwaukee Bucks (1970)

The Record Before Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was acquired by The Bucks: 27-55

The Record After Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was acquired by The Bucks: 56-26

The 1969–70 NBA season was Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s first season with the Milwaukee Bucks and the start of a legendary career. It also had a profound effect on both Abdul-Jabbar and the team. Lew Alcindor, then known as Abdul-Jabbar, had a distinguished undergraduate career at UCLA, where he helped the Bruins win three NCAA titles. He was a much sought-after talent. The Milwaukee Bucks had the chance to choose Alcindor with the first overall choice in the NBA Draught in 1969, their second season as an NBA team.

Abdul-Jabbar had an immediate effect on the court during his first season. The Bucks became a formidable team because of his overwhelming scoring skills, superb footwork, and defensive presence. One of the most recognisable techniques in NBA history, Abdul-Jabbar’s trademark skyhook shot almost became unblockable.

The performance of the entire Bucks squad improved because of Abdul-Jabbar’s presence. The Bucks, under the direction of head coach Larry Costello, concluded the regular season with an impressive 56-26 record, a marked improvement over the previous campaign. The Bucks advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals during the postseason before losing to the New York Knicks in five games.

The Los Angeles Lakers, who were led by Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West, were a formidable opponent for the Bucks in the NBA Finals the next year as they carried on their great play. Abdul-Jabbar and Chamberlain, two of the best centres in the history of the game, faced off in the much-anticipated series. In the Finals, Abdul-Jabbar’s influence was felt strongly. With an average of 26.2 PPG, 17.0 RPG, and 2.8 APG, he demonstrated his superiority. His outstanding play and inspiring leadership led the Bucks to their first NBA title with a four-game sweep of the Lakers.

Both Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and the Milwaukee Bucks underwent significant change during his first season. Even though it took him an additional year to win a title, the Bucks reached new heights thanks to his great talent, stout play, and leadership skills. Abdul-Jabbar had a huge influence on his new club, turning the Bucks into a competitive force in the East and ultimately leading them to a title.

6. LeBron James – Miami Heat (2011)

The Record Before LeBron James was acquired by the Heat: 47-35

The Record After LeBron James was acquired by the Heat: 58-24

LeBron James signed as a free agent in the summer of 2010 after beginning his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers for the first seven seasons. The NBA world was abuzz with rumours and excitement about his willingness to consider other possibilities.

LeBron James and Chris Bosh made their plans to join the Miami Heat known during the summer. The trio would team up with Heat star Dwyane Wade to form the Big Three, which was expected to drastically alter the NBA. As fans and media pondered the ramifications of superstars teaming up and the perceived influence on competitive balance, the “Decision” created controversy and tense arguments. James received criticism from some Cleveland supporters who thought he had betrayed them by leaving the Cavaliers.

But everything wasn’t all roses. The Heat experienced some early difficulties as they got used to playing together throughout the regular season. However, as the season went on, the squad began to find its groove and show off its potential. James demonstrated his ability to be a dynamic presence on both ends of the floor by helping with playmaking, scoring, and defence. James averaged 26.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, and 7.0 APG as the Heat concluded the regular season with a 58-24 record, earning the second seed in the Eastern Conference.

The Heat and the Dirk Nowitzki-led Dallas Mavericks squared off in the NBA Finals. The Heat had a good start to the series but ultimately lost to the Mavericks in six games. James and the Heat were disappointed with the result of the Finals since they had set their eyes on winning the title.

The Miami Heat’s first season was a pivotal year for LeBron James’ career. Wade and Bosh’s choice to team together attracted increased attention and higher expectations. Even though the season didn’t result in a title, it set the stage for future success, and The King’s Finals defeat helped him develop his concentration and mindset to the point that he is now considered one of the best players of all time.

7. Kevin Garnett – Boston Celtics (2008)

The Record Before Kevin Garnett was acquired by The Celtics: 24-58

The Record After Kevin Garnett was acquired by The Celtics: 66-16

A key transaction resulted in Kevin Garnett’s first NBA season with the Boston Celtics in 2007–08. After playing with the Minnesota Timberwolves for the first 12 years of his career, Garnett was looking for a change and a chance to contend for an NBA title. Along with guard Gerald Green, centre Theo Ratliff, and forward Ryan Gomes, the Celtics acquired Kevin Garnett from the Timberwolves. Al Jefferson, Sebastian Telfair, Ryan Gomes, Theo Ratliff, Gerald Green, as well as a collection of future draught selections, were sent to the Timberwolves in exchange.

There was a lot of enthusiasm and eagerness for Garnett to arrive in Boston. The Celtics teamed up with fellow All-Stars Ray Allen and Paul Pierce to form a strong “Big Three.” The trio was ready to have a big influence on the team’s performance and challenge for the NBA title. Garnett adapted to his new teammates right away, all with Doc Rivers’ help. With Garnett’s addition, the Celtics’ identity changed, emphasising a defensive-minded strategy and team-first mindset.

The Celtics made a spectacular comeback during the 2007–08 season. They became one of the league’s best teams because of the defensive skill of Garnett, Paul Pierce’s scoring prowess, and Ray Allen’s accurate shooting. Garnett, who earned Defensive Player of the Year after averaging 18.8 points per game and 9.2 rebounds per game, had a noticeable influence on both ends of the floor by providing effort and focus that improved the performance of the whole team. The Celtics secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference after finishing the regular season with a staggering 66-16 record. They made it to the NBA Finals by winning a difficult playoff series against the Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Detroit Pistons.

The Los Angeles Lakers, the Celtics’ venerable adversaries, were their opponents in the Finals. The Celtics overcame the Lakers in six games thanks to Garnett’s outstanding performance and leadership, securing the franchise’s 17th NBA title. While the development of Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen were essential to the Celtics team, it was Garnett who made the team the most different.

8. Larry Bird – Boston Celtics (1980)

The Record Before Larry Bird was acquired by The Celtics: 29-53

The Record After Larry Bird was acquired by The Celtics: 61-21

Larry Bird had a truly exceptional influence on the Boston Celtics during his debut season. His ability to score was immediately apparent. In his first season, he led the squad in scoring with a 21.3 PPG average. Bird’s ability to score gave the Celtics’ offence a new dimension, giving them a go-to player and wearing down rival defences. Even though he wasn’t particularly athletic, Bird’s influence went beyond scoring because he had a superb sense of time and placement that allowed him to outmanoeuvre rivals and get important rebounds. The talented forward also led his club with 10.4 RPG and 4.5 APG.

The bird had incredible passing skills. His keen sense of the floor and aptitude for making accurate, imaginative passes improved the Celtics’ attacking rhythm. Bird had a high basketball IQ, which helped him analyse defences and identify open NBA stars new team mates for easy scoring opportunities. His eagerness to include his teammates in the game and his selflessness helped to create a cohesive and effective team culture.

The success of the Celtics during his debut season also showed the instant influence. The club increased by an astounding 32 victories from 29 wins the season before to 61 wins this year. The Celtics were able to secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference and go to the second round of the playoffs thanks to this stunning turnaround, which is primarily credited to Bird’s influence. The Celtics would triumph the next season, all thanks to Bird.

There is no denying that the Boston Celtics were changed by the addition of Larry Bird during his rookie campaign. His shooting proficiency, ability to grab rebounds, passing prowess, leadership qualities, and competitive spirit improved the team’s success on a number of fronts.

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