Here is the comparison of NBA teams’ winning percentages with and without their biggest superstars.
In the NBA, the presence of iconic superstars has been a determining factor in teams’ success throughout history. From legends like Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson to contemporary figures like LeBron James and Stephen Curry, these stars have left an indelible mark on their respective franchises.
This article aims to explore the impact these stars have had on their teams, comparing winning percentages with and without their presence.
Through a historical analysis, we will examine how the presence or absence of these stars has affected overall team performance, highlighting their influence on the course of competition and their enduring legacy in the NBA.
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1. Stephen Curry – Golden State Warriors
Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports
Warriors Winning Percentage With Curry: 64.5%
Warriors Winning Percentage Without Curry: 35.8%
Win Differential: 28.7%
Stephen Curry, the dynamic point guard of the Golden State Warriors, has been instrumental in the team’s success since his arrival in 2009. With Curry leading the charge, the Warriors have consistently been a dominant force in the NBA, showcasing their prowess on both ends of the floor.
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Throughout his tenure with the Warriors, spanning over a decade, Curry has amassed an impressive array of accolades. His 10 All-Star selections and nine All-NBA selections underscore his status as one of the league’s premier talents.
Additionally, Curry’s two MVP awards in 2015 and 2016 solidified his place among the all-time greats, as he revolutionized the game with his unparalleled shooting ability and playmaking skills.
Curry’s impact on the Warriors extends far beyond individual honors. His presence on the court dramatically alters the team’s performance, as evidenced by their remarkable 64.5% win rate with him in the lineup. When Curry is absent, the Warriors’ win percentage drops significantly to 35.8%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 28.7% win differential further emphasizes Curry’s impact, illustrating how his mere presence significantly bolsters the team’s performance.
Beyond statistics, Curry’s leadership and unselfish play have been instrumental in fostering a winning culture within the Warriors organization. His ability to elevate the play of those around him and make his teammates better is a testament to his basketball IQ and commitment to team success.
Curry’s legacy with the Warriors is already etched in stone, as he played a pivotal role in leading the team to four NBA championships in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022.
His impact on the franchise transcends wins and losses, as he has become a beloved figure both on and off the court. Stephen Curry didn’t just change the game of basketball with his revolutionary style of play; he redefined what it means to be a Golden State Warrior and left an indelible mark on the franchise’s storied history.
2. LeBron James – Cleveland Cavaliers
Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Cavaliers Winning Percentage With LeBron: 64.5%
Cavaliers Winning Percentage Without LeBron: 37.7%
Win Differential: 26.8%
Arriving as the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, LeBron quickly asserted himself as one of the league’s premier talents, guiding the Cavaliers to prominence with his remarkable skills and leadership.
Across his two tenures spanning from 2003 to 2010 and then from 2014 to 2018, LeBron’s impact on the Cavaliers transcended statistics. His 10 All-Star selections and 8 All-NBA selections during his time in Cleveland underscored his consistent excellence and dominance on the court.
LeBron’s prowess wasn’t limited to individual accolades; he propelled the Cavaliers to the upper echelons of the NBA, leading them to the playoffs in multiple seasons and carrying them to the NBA Finals on four occasions.
It was during his second stint with the Cavaliers that LeBron solidified his legacy as a Cleveland sports icon. Returning to his hometown team in 2014, LeBron embarked on a mission to deliver a long-awaited championship to the city of Cleveland.
His determination and skill were on full display as he led the Cavaliers to the NBA Finals in four consecutive seasons from 2015 to 2018, capturing the hearts of fans along the way.
In 2016, LeBron achieved the ultimate triumph, guiding the Cavaliers to their first NBA championship in franchise history. His performance throughout the postseason was nothing short of spectacular, culminating in a historic comeback from a 3-1 deficit against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals.
LeBron’s contributions went beyond his on-court heroics; he inspired his teammates, galvanized the fanbase, and etched his name in Cleveland sports lore forever.
3. Larry Bird – Boston Celtics
Credit: Fadeaway World
Celtics Winning Percentage With Bird: 64.5%
Celtics Winning Percentage Without Bird: 37.7%
Win Differential: 26.8%
Larry Bird defined an era of basketball with his unparalleled skill and competitive spirit. Throughout his illustrious career spanning from 1979 to 1992, Bird propelled the Celtics to new heights, establishing himself as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Bird’s impact on the Celtics was immediate and profound. His twelve All-Star selections and ten All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent excellence and dominance on the court.
Additionally, Bird’s three MVP awards in consecutive years from 1984 to 1986 solidified his status as one of the league’s most decorated players.
Beyond individual accolades, Bird’s influence on the Celtics extended to team success. With Bird leading the charge, the Celtics boasted an impressive 64.5% win rate, demonstrating his ability to elevate the team’s performance to elite levels.
When Bird was absent, however, the Celtics’ win percentage dropped significantly to 37.7%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 26.8% win differential further emphasizes Bird’s impact, illustrating how his mere presence significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Beyond statistics, Bird’s leadership and clutch performances were instrumental in guiding the Celtics to three NBA championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986.
His rivalry with Magic Johnson and the Los Angeles Lakers during the 1980s captivated basketball fans worldwide and elevated the sport to new heights of popularity.
Bird’s legacy with the Celtics transcends wins and losses. He personified the blue-collar work ethic and gritty determination that Boston sports fans hold dear, earning the admiration and respect of teammates, opponents, and fans alike.
Larry Bird didn’t just play for the Celtics; he embodied the spirit of Boston and left an indelible mark on the franchise’s storied history.
4. Bill Russell – Boston Celtics
Credit: Fadeaway World
Celtics Winning Percentage With Russell: 71.6%
Celtics Winning Percentage Without Russell: 50.0%
Win Differential: 21.6%
Bill Russell redefined the role of the center position and became one of the most dominant players in NBA history. During his tenure with the Boston Celtics from 1956 to 1969, Russell led the team to unprecedented success, capturing a remarkable 11 NBA championships in 13 seasons.
Russell’s impact on the Celtics was unparalleled. His twelve All-Star selections and eleven All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent excellence and defensive prowess. Additionally, Russell’s five MVP awards further solidified his status as one of the greatest players of all time.
Beyond individual accolades, Russell’s presence on the court transformed the Celtics into a perennial powerhouse. With Russell anchoring the defense and controlling the boards, the Celtics boasted an astonishing 71.6% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to historic levels. When Russell was absent, the Celtics’ win percentage dropped to 50.0%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 21.6% win differential further emphasizes Russell’s impact, illustrating how his defensive presence and leadership significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Russell’s ability to dominate games without necessarily relying on scoring set him apart from his peers and revolutionized the way defense was played in the NBA.
Russell’s legacy with the Celtics extends far beyond statistics and championships. He embodied the selfless, team-first mentality that defined the Celtics’ culture during the 1960s, earning the admiration and respect of teammates and opponents alike.
Russell’s contributions to the game of basketball transcend wins and losses; he left an indelible mark on the sport and paved the way for future generations of players. Bill Russell didn’t just play for the Celtics; he epitomized their ethos of teamwork, perseverance, and excellence.
5. LeBron James – Miami Heat
Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Heat Winning Percentage With LeBron: 73.1%
Heat Winning Percentage Without LeBron: 53.5%
Win Differential: 19.6%
LeBron James brought his unparalleled talent to the Miami Heat during his tenure with the team from 2010 to 2014. With his versatility, basketball IQ, and leadership, LeBron led the Heat to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances and two championships.
LeBron’s impact on the Heat was seismic. His four All-Star selections and four All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent excellence and dominance on both ends of the court. Additionally, LeBron’s two MVP awards in consecutive years solidified his status as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Beyond individual accolades, LeBron’s presence on the court transformed the Heat into a juggernaut. With LeBron leading the charge, the Heat boasted an impressive 73.1% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to championship levels. When LeBron temporarily departed in 2014, the Heat’s win percentage dropped to 53.5%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 19.6% win differential further emphasizes LeBron’s impact, illustrating how his versatility and leadership significantly bolstered the team’s performance. LeBron’s ability to play and excel at multiple positions, along with his clutch performances in critical moments, made him the focal point of the Heat’s success during his time in Miami.
6. Kobe Bryant – Los Angeles Lakers
Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Lakers Winning Percentage With Kobe: 61.1%
Lakers Winning Percentage Without Kobe: 43.5%
Win Differential: 17.6%
Kobe Bryant left an indelible mark on the Los Angeles Lakers during his illustrious 20-year career. From his debut in 1996 to his retirement in 2016, Kobe epitomized the Lakers’ winning tradition, leading the team to five NBA championships and etching his name in basketball lore.
Bryant’s impact on the Lakers was undeniable. His 18 All-Star selections and 15 All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent excellence and scoring prowess. Additionally, Bryant’s MVP award in 2008 solidified his status as one of the league’s most dynamic and dominant players.
Beyond individual accolades, Bryant’s competitive fire and relentless work ethic propelled the Lakers to new heights. With Kobe leading the charge, the Lakers boasted a solid 61.1% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to championship levels. When Kobe was absent, the Lakers’ win percentage dropped to 43.5%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 17.6% win differential further emphasizes Kobe’s impact, illustrating how his scoring ability and leadership significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Bryant’s clutch performances and unyielding determination in pressure situations became legendary, earning him the respect and admiration of fans around the world.
Kobe’s legacy with the Lakers extends far beyond statistics and championships. He embodied the spirit of Los Angeles and became a cultural icon both on and off the court. Bryant’s impact on the Lakers franchise and the game of basketball as a whole will be felt for generations to come. Kobe Bryant didn’t just play for the Lakers; he defined an era and left an indelible mark on the sport he loved.
7. Hakeem Olajuwon – Houston Rockets
Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports
Rockets Winning Percentage With Hakeem: 59.1%
Rockets Winning Percentage Without Hakeem: 42.0%
Win Differential: 17.1%
Hakeem Olajuwon redefined the position with his remarkable skill set and defensive prowess. During his illustrious career with the Rockets from 1984 to 2001, Olajuwon led the team to two NBA championships and left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Olajuwon’s impact on the Rockets was profound. His twelve All-Star selections and twelve All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent excellence and dominance on both ends of the court. Additionally, Olajuwon’s MVP award in 1994 solidified his status as one of the league’s most dominant and versatile players.
Beyond individual accolades, Olajuwon’s presence on the court transformed the Rockets into a formidable contender. With Hakeem leading the charge, the Rockets boasted a solid 59.1% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to championship levels. When Hakeem was absent, the Rockets’ win percentage dropped to 42.0%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 17.1% win differential further emphasizes Olajuwon’s impact, illustrating how his defensive prowess and leadership significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Olajuwon’s signature move, the “Dream Shake,” became legendary as he dominated opponents with his footwork and shot-blocking ability.
Olajuwon’s legacy with the Rockets extends far beyond statistics and championships. He embodied the spirit of Houston and became a beloved figure in the community. Olajuwon’s impact on the Rockets franchise and the game of basketball as a whole will be felt for generations to come. Hakeem Olajuwon didn’t just play for the Rockets; he defined an era and left an indelible mark on the sport he loved.
8. Michael Jordan – Chicago Bulls
Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Bulls Winning Percentage With Jordan: 65.8%
Bulls Winning Percentage Without Jordan: 48.9%
Win Differential: 16.9%
Michael Jordan, considered the greatest basketball player of all time, left an indelible mark on the Chicago Bulls franchise during his storied career. From his debut in 1984 to his final retirement in 1998, Jordan epitomized excellence and led the Bulls to six NBA championships.
Jordan’s impact on the Bulls was immeasurable. His fourteen All-Star selections and ten All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent dominance and unparalleled skill. Additionally, Jordan’s five MVP awards solidified his status as one of the most iconic figures in sports history.
Beyond individual accolades, Jordan’s competitive fire and relentless drive propelled the Bulls to unprecedented success. With Jordan leading the charge, the Bulls boasted an impressive 65.8% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to championship levels. When Jordan briefly retired in 1993, and later during his hiatus in 1994-1995, the Bulls’ win percentage dropped to 48.9%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 16.9% win differential further emphasizes Jordan’s impact, illustrating how his scoring ability and leadership significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Jordan’s clutch performances in crucial moments became the stuff of legend, as he willed the Bulls to victory time and time again.
Jordan’s legacy with the Bulls transcends statistics and championships. He became a global icon and inspired millions of fans around the world with his unparalleled skill and determination. Jordan didn’t just play for the Bulls; he defined an era and left an indelible mark on the franchise’s storied history.
9. Magic Johnson – Los Angeles Lakers
Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports
Lakers Winning Percentage With Magic: 73.9%
Lakers Winning Percentage Without Magic: 58.1%
Win Differential: 15.8%
Magic Johnson, the legendary point guard of the Los Angeles Lakers, revolutionized the game with his unique blend of size, skill, and court vision. Throughout his illustrious career with the Lakers from 1979 to 1991, and a brief comeback in 1996, Magic led the team to five NBA championships and left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Johnson’s impact on the Lakers was profound. His twelve All-Star selections and nine All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent excellence and unparalleled playmaking ability. Additionally, Magic’s three MVP awards solidified his status as one of the most iconic figures in basketball history.
Beyond individual accolades, Magic’s leadership and infectious charisma propelled the Lakers to unprecedented success. With Magic orchestrating the offense, the Lakers boasted an astonishing 73.9% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to championship levels. When Magic briefly retired in 1991 due to his HIV diagnosis, the Lakers’ win percentage dropped to 58.1%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 15.8% win differential further emphasizes Magic’s impact, illustrating how his passing wizardry and unselfish play significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Magic’s Showtime Lakers epitomized fast-paced, entertaining basketball, captivating audiences around the world and cementing their place in NBA history.
Magic’s legacy with the Lakers extends far beyond statistics and championships. He became a cultural icon and transcended the sport of basketball, inspiring countless fans with his infectious smile and relentless passion for the game. Magic Johnson didn’t just play for the Lakers; he defined an era and left an indelible mark on the franchise’s storied history.
10. Shaquille O’Neal – Los Angeles Lakers
Credit: Fadeaway World
Lakers Winning Percentage With Shaq: 67.8%
Lakers Winning Percentage Without Shaq: 53.9%
Win Differential: 13.9%
Shaquille O’Neal, the dominant force of the Los Angeles Lakers during the late 1990s and early 2000s, imposed his will on the court with his unparalleled size, strength, and skill. Throughout his tenure with the Lakers from 1996 to 2004, Shaq led the team to three consecutive NBA championships and left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Shaq’s impact on the Lakers was undeniable. His seven All-Star selections and seven All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent dominance and scoring prowess. Additionally, Shaq’s MVP award in 2000 solidified his status as one of the most dominant players in NBA history.
Beyond individual accolades, Shaq’s presence in the paint transformed the Lakers into a championship contender. With Shaq anchoring the offense and dominating the boards, the Lakers boasted an impressive 67.8% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to championship levels. When Shaq was absent, the Lakers’ win percentage dropped to 53.9%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 13.9% win differential further emphasizes Shaq’s impact, illustrating how his scoring ability and rim protection significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Shaq’s dominance in the post and ability to draw double teams opened up opportunities for his teammates, making the Lakers a formidable force on both ends of the court.
Shaq’s legacy with the Lakers extends far beyond statistics and championships. He became a cultural icon and transcended the sport of basketball, inspiring fans with his larger-than-life personality and unstoppable presence on the court. Shaquille O’Neal didn’t just play for the Lakers; he defined an era of dominance and left an indelible mark on the franchise’s storied history.
11. Tim Duncan – San Antonio Spurs
(via USA Today)
Source: USA Today
Spurs Winning Percentage With Duncan: 71.9%
Spurs Winning Percentage Without Duncan: 60.2%
Win Differential: 11.7%
Tim Duncan, the cornerstone of the San Antonio Spurs’ dynasty, exemplified excellence and consistency throughout his illustrious career. From his debut in 1997 to his retirement in 2016, Duncan led the Spurs to five NBA championships and solidified his place among the greatest power forwards of all time.
Duncan’s impact on the Spurs was profound. His fifteen All-Star selections and fifteen All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent dominance and fundamental brilliance. Additionally, Duncan’s two MVP awards solidified his status as one of the most respected and admired players in NBA history.
Beyond individual accolades, Duncan’s leadership and unselfishness propelled the Spurs to unprecedented success. With Duncan anchoring the defense and leading by example, the Spurs boasted an impressive 71.9% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to championship levels. Even during his brief absences due to injury or rest, the Spurs’ win percentage remained strong at 60.2%, highlighting his influence on the team’s culture of excellence.
The 11.7% win differential further emphasizes Duncan’s impact, illustrating how his defensive presence and selfless play significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Duncan’s understated demeanor belied his fierce competitiveness and will to win, earning him the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents, and fans alike.
Duncan’s legacy with the Spurs extends far beyond statistics and championships. He embodied the values of loyalty, humility, and teamwork, setting the standard for professionalism in sports. Tim Duncan didn’t just play for the Spurs; he defined an era of sustained success and left an indelible mark on the franchise’s storied history.
12. LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers
Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
Lakers Winning Percentage With LeBron: 57.9%
Lakers Winning Percentage Without LeBron: 50.5%
Win Differential: 7.4%
LeBron James has left an indelible mark on the Los Angeles Lakers since joining the team in 2018. With his leadership, versatility, and unmatched basketball IQ, LeBron has guided the Lakers to their 17th NBA championship in 2020, solidifying his place in Lakers lore.
LeBron’s impact on the Lakers has been significant. His six All-Star selections and five All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent excellence and leadership on and off the court. Additionally, LeBron’s ability to elevate the play of his teammates and instill a winning mentality has been instrumental in the Lakers’ success.
Beyond individual accolades, LeBron’s presence on the court has transformed the Lakers into a championship contender. With LeBron leading the charge, the Lakers boast a solid 57.9% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to competitive levels. When LeBron is absent due to injury or rest, the Lakers’ win percentage drops to 50.5%, highlighting his indispensable role within the team.
The 7.4% win differential further emphasizes LeBron’s impact, illustrating how his leadership and versatility significantly bolster the team’s performance. LeBron’s ability to control the pace of the game, make crucial plays in clutch moments, and elevate the play of his teammates make him an invaluable asset to the Lakers’ success.
Honorable Mention
Kevin Durant
Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Thunder Winning Percentage With Durant: 58.3%
Thunder Winning Percentage Without Durant: 51.5%
Win Differential: 6.8%
Kevin Durant, the scoring maestro of the Oklahoma City Thunder, made an indelible impact during his tenure with the team from 2007 to 2016. With his elite scoring ability and versatility, Durant led the Thunder to multiple playoff appearances and established himself as one of the premier players in the league.
Durant’s impact on the Thunder was profound. His eight All-Star selections and seven All-NBA selections with the team underscore his consistent excellence and offensive firepower. Additionally, Durant’s MVP award in 2014 solidified his status as one of the most dynamic scorers in NBA history.
Beyond individual accolades, Durant’s presence on the court transformed the Thunder into a perennial playoff contender. With Durant leading the charge, the Thunder boasted a solid 58.3% win rate, showcasing his ability to elevate the team’s performance to competitive levels. When Durant was absent, the Thunder’s win percentage dropped to 51.5%, highlighting his significant role within the team.
The 6.8% win differential further emphasizes Durant’s impact, illustrating how his scoring prowess and offensive versatility significantly bolstered the team’s performance. Durant’s ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, opening up opportunities for his teammates and keeping the Thunder competitive in his absence.
Durant’s legacy with the Thunder extends beyond statistics and championships. He became a fan favorite and played a pivotal role in elevating the Thunder to relevance in the NBA landscape. While his departure left a void in Oklahoma City, Durant’s impact on the franchise will be remembered for years to come.
Idea Credit: ClutchPoints
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