Every NBA Team’s Biggest Blowout In Playoff History

Delving into the depths of NBA playoff history, we uncover the most crushing defeats suffered by each team. From heartbreak to humiliation, every franchise has faced its share of devastating losses on the postseason stage. 

Join us as we take a closer look at the worst blowout defeats in the playoff history of every NBA team, revisiting the moments that left fans reeling and teams searching for redemption.

Atlanta Hawks: -58 Points

St. Louis Hawks @ Minneapolis Lakers, 75-133 (1956 Division Semifinals)

Back in 1956, the St. Louis Hawks (the early version of today’s Atlanta Hawks) were on the wrong side of a playoff record, getting thrashed by the Minneapolis Lakers with a jaw-dropping score of 75-133 in the Division Semifinals. This whopping 58-point loss in Game 2 still stands as the Hawks’ most severe playoff defeat.

Bob Pettit led the Hawks in the loss that night, with 14 points on an abysmal 4-15 shooting. Still, the Hawks managed to beat the Lakers in that series, falling short against the Fort Wayne Pistons in the Division Finals later on. 

Boston Celtics: -47 Points

Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic, 77-124 (1995 First Round)

The Boston Celtics faced one of their toughest playoff defeats in history during the 1995 First Round, losing by 47 points to the Orlando Magic in Game 1, with the final scoreboard reading 77-124. This blowout highlighted the Magic’s offensive prowess, led by a dominant performance from Shaquille O’Neal, who spearheaded the Magic’s charge throughout the series.

The rest of the series didn’t fare much better for the Celtics, as they were beaten 3-1 by a surging Magic team. Orlando’s victory in this series marked a pivotal moment in their ascendancy in the mid-90s, fueled by their young and talented roster. The Magic would continue their strong playoff performance by reaching the NBA Finals that year, though they eventually fell to the Houston Rockets.

Brooklyn Nets: -28 Points

Brooklyn Nets vs. Toronto Raptors, 122-150 (2020 First Round)

In the 2020 NBA playoffs, the Brooklyn Nets faced a tough challenge against the Toronto Raptors and suffered their most significant playoff defeat in Game 4 of the First Round, losing by 28 points with a final score of 122-150. This game was a display of the Raptors’ offensive firepower, as they took control early and never let up, effectively sweeping the series with a 4-0 record against the Nets.

The Raptors’ overwhelming victory was characterized by a high-scoring performance from their squad, with several players hitting double digits in points. For the Nets, despite putting up a respectable 122 points, the defensive lapses allowed Toronto too many opportunities, which they capitalized on efficiently. The Raptors went on to compete fiercely in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, illustrating the level of competition the Nets faced.

Charlotte Hornets: -33 Points

Charlotte Hornets vs. Miami Heat, 106-73 (2016 First Round, Game 7)

In Game 7 of the 2016 First Round against the Miami Heat, the Charlotte Hornets endured their largest playoff defeat, losing by 33 points with the scoreboard reading 106-73. This decisive game concluded the Hornets’ playoff journey, highlighting the disparity in playoff experience and execution between the two teams.

The Hornets struggled to match the intensity and efficiency of the Heat from the get-go. Miami took control early in the game, utilizing a balanced attack that overwhelmed Charlotte’s defenses. The Heat’s ability to execute under pressure was a key differentiator, propelling them to a dominant victory in this do-or-die matchup.

Chicago Bulls: -37 Points

Chicago Bulls @ Miami Heat, 78-115 (2013 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Game 2)

In the 2013 Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Chicago Bulls faced a daunting challenge against the Miami Heat in Game 2, resulting in their largest playoff defeat with a -37 point differential, with the final score 78-115.

The game demonstrated the Heat’s superior tactical execution and the Bulls’ struggle to match Miami’s intensity and skill. Under Coach Tom Thibodeau, the Bulls were renowned for their defense, but they found themselves overwhelmed by the Heat’s aggressive offensive strategy. Although the Bulls continued to put up a fight throughout the series, they ultimately fell to the Heat, who advanced and eventually clinched the NBA Championship.

Cleveland Cavaliers: -38 Points

Cleveland Cavaliers @ Orlando Magic, 83-121 (2024 First Round, Game 3)

In this 2024 NBA playoffs, the Cleveland Cavaliers experienced their most substantial playoff defeat during Game 3 of the First Round, losing by 38 points against the Orlando Magic with a final score of 83-121. This loss marked a significant low point for the Cavaliers in the series, showcasing the Magic’s dominance on their home court.

This game was pivotal as the Magic took a commanding lead in the series, utilizing their home-court advantage to full effect. The Cavaliers struggled to contain the Magic’s offensive bursts and were unable to match their intensity throughout the game. The loss was a crucial turning point in the series, pushing the Cavaliers to the brink of elimination although they emerged victorious in Game 7 and earned their ticket to the next round against the Celtics.

Dallas Mavericks: -43 Points

Dallas Mavericks vs. Los Angeles Clippers, 111-154 (2020 First Round, Game 5)

In Game 5 of the First Round in the 2020 playoffs, the Dallas Mavericks faced a severe defeat, losing by 43 points to the Clippers with a final score of 111-154. This game stands as the Mavericks’ largest playoff loss, highlighting the Clippers’ overwhelming offensive firepower in a critical playoff matchup.

The game was dominated by the Clippers from start to finish, with their sharpshooters finding the net from all angles and their defense stifling the Mavericks’ key players. The Clippers’ ability to execute their game plan flawlessly left the Mavericks struggling to keep pace. The Mavericks were unable to recover fully from this blowout, eventually losing the series.

Denver Nuggets: -44 Points

Denver Nuggets @ Los Angeles Lakers, 109-153 (1985 Western Conference Finals, Game 5)

In Game 5 of the 1985 Western Conference Finals, the Denver Nuggets endured a crushing defeat, losing by 44 points to the Los Angeles Lakers, with the final score standing at 109-153. This loss remains the largest playoff defeat in Nuggets history and effectively ended their playoff run, as they lost the series 4-1 to a dominant Lakers team.

The 1985 Lakers, led by the likes of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, were in the midst of establishing a dynasty and this game was a clear demonstration of their power and cohesion. The Lakers’ victory in this series propelled them into the NBA Finals, where they ultimately claimed the championship by defeating the Boston Celtics in a memorable showdown.

Detroit Pistons: -44 Points

Detroit Pistons vs. St. Louis Hawks, 101-145 (1958 Division Finals, Game 4)

In the 1958 Division Finals, the Detroit Pistons faced one of their most challenging playoff defeats, losing Game 4 to the St. Louis Hawks by a staggering 44 points, with the final score reading 101-145.

This loss marked a pivotal moment in the series, effectively sealing the Pistons’ fate as they were unable to recover and ultimately lost the series to the Hawks. The Hawks, fueled by their convincing victory, continued their strong postseason performance, eventually making a significant run in the playoffs.

Golden State Warriors: -56 Points

Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 70-126 (1973 Western Conference Finals, Game 3)

In the 1973 Western Conference Finals, the Golden State Warriors faced a severe playoff rout, losing Game 3 to the Los Angeles Lakers by a staggering 56 points, with the scoreline reading 70-126. This game stands as one of the most significant losses in Warriors playoff history, highlighting the Lakers’ overwhelming dominance during the series.

This crushing defeat in Game 3 was a pivotal moment for the Warriors, as it exemplified the Lakers’ superior strategy and execution. The Lakers, riding the momentum of their commanding win, went on to clinch the series in 5 games, showcasing their strength and coordination. They advanced to the NBA Finals, where they faced the New York Knicks.

Houston Rockets: -41 Points

Houston Rockets @ Golden State Warriors, 85-126 (2018 Western Conference Finals, Game 3)

In a pivotal Game 3 of the 2018 Western Conference Finals, the Houston Rockets suffered one of their most substantial playoff losses, falling to the Golden State Warriors by 41 points with a final score of 85-126. This defeat underscored the Warriors’ offensive might and their ability to dominate on the playoff stage, especially at home in the Oracle Arena.

The Warriors’ victory was powered by exceptional performances from their star players, including Stephen Curry, who had a standout game. The Rockets, despite the setback, managed to extend the series to a competitive seven games, showcasing their resilience and determination. The Warriors eventually won the series and moved on to claim the NBA Championship, marking their status as one of the era’s dynastic teams.

Indiana Pacers: -32 Points

Indiana Pacers @ Miami Heat, 83-115 (2012 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Game 5)

During Game 5 of the 2012 Eastern Conference Semifinals, the Indiana Pacers faced one of their toughest playoff defeats, losing to the Miami Heat by 32 points with the score ending at 83-115. This game was a critical turning point in the series, demonstrating the Heat’s dominance at the height of their “Big Three” era with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh leading the charge.

The loss was a significant challenge for the Pacers, who struggled to contain the Heat’s offensive firepower and to answer back with their own scoring. The Heat’s ability to execute under pressure and their defensive intensity overwhelmed the Pacers, shifting the series’ momentum decisively in Miami’s favor. The Heat went on to win the series 4-2, using this game as a springboard to eventually claim the NBA Championship that year.

Los Angeles Clippers: -30 Points

Los Angeles Clippers vs. Dallas Mavericks, 93-123 (2024 First Round, Game 5)

In the 2024 NBA playoffs, the Los Angeles Clippers faced a significant setback in Game 5 of the First Round, losing to the Dallas Mavericks by 30 points with a final score of 93-123. This loss highlighted the Mavericks’ strategic execution and the Clippers’ struggles to maintain defensive cohesion and offensive consistency.

The game was a pivotal moment in the series, with Dallas taking a crucial 3-2 series lead. The Mavericks’ victory was marked by a well-rounded team performance, effectively containing the Clippers’ star duo of Paul George and James Harden. Dallas went on to win Game 6, thereby closing out the series 4-2 and advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Los Angeles Lakers: -39 Points

Los Angeles Lakers @ Boston Celtics, 92-131 (2008 NBA Finals, Game 6)

In a decisive Game 6 of the 2008 NBA Finals, the Los Angeles Lakers suffered one of their most significant playoff defeats, losing to the Boston Celtics by 39 points with the score settling at 92-131. This crushing loss not only ended the game but also the series, handing the NBA Championship to the Celtics in a resounding fashion.

The game was dominated by the Celtics from the outset. Boston’s defense stifled the Lakers, limiting their offensive effectiveness and forcing turnovers that led to easy points on the other end. The Celtics’ offense was equally impressive, with their players hitting shots from all over the court. Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen all contributed significant performances, overwhelming the Lakers’ defense and capturing their franchise’s 17th NBA title.

Memphis Grizzlies: -40 Points

Memphis Grizzlies @ Los Angeles Lakers, 85-125 (2023 First Round, Game 6)

In the 2023 NBA playoffs, the Memphis Grizzlies faced a devastating loss in Game 6 of the First Round, falling to the Los Angeles Lakers by 40 points with a final score of 85-125. This significant defeat not only marked the Grizzlies’ largest playoff loss but also eliminated them from the postseason, allowing the Lakers to advance.

The Lakers’ comprehensive victory was punctuated by stellar performances from their key players, who combined to overwhelm the Grizzlies’ defenses. For Memphis, this game highlighted the need for strategic adjustments and resilience in the offseason.

Miami Heat: -36 Points

Miami Heat @ San Antonio Spurs, 77-113 (2013 NBA Finals, Game 3)

In the 2013 NBA Finals, the Miami Heat experienced one of their most substantial playoff defeats, losing by 36 points to the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 with a score of 77-113. This significant loss took place at the AT&T Center in San Antonio and marked a pivotal moment in the series.

The Spurs’ victory was highlighted by an extraordinary display of three-point shooting and airtight defense that stifled the Heat’s typically explosive offense. San Antonio set a Finals record for the most three-pointers in a game, which contributed heavily to the wide margin of victory. The Heat struggled to counter the Spurs’ rhythm and precision, finding themselves outplayed in nearly every aspect of the game.

Milwaukee Bucks: -54 Points

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Chicago Bulls, 66-120 (2015 First Round, Game 6)

During the 2015 NBA playoffs, the Milwaukee Bucks faced a devastating defeat in Game 6 of the First Round against the Chicago Bulls, losing by an astounding 54 points with a final score of 66-120. This loss marked the largest point differential in a playoff game in Bucks history and ended their playoff run for the season.

The Bulls’ intensity and precision on both ends of the court overwhelmed the young Bucks team, who struggled to find any rhythm or answer to Chicago’s aggression. This emphatic victory propelled the Bulls into the next round, while it left the Bucks to reflect on their playoff experience and the growth needed to compete more effectively in future postseasons.

Minnesota Timberwolves: -30 Points

Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 90-120 (2003 First Round, Game 5)

In the 2003 NBA playoffs, the Minnesota Timberwolves faced a significant setback in Game 5 of the First Round against the Los Angeles Lakers, suffering a 30-point loss with a final score of 90-120. This defeat, which occurred at the Target Center in Minneapolis, underscored the Lakers’ dominance in the series and ended the Timberwolves’ postseason run.

The game was marked by the Lakers’ offensive firepower and defensive prowess, as they controlled the tempo from start to finish. Led by their star duo of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, the Lakers overwhelmed the Timberwolves with their scoring ability and interior presence.

New Orleans Hornets: -58 Points

New Orleans Hornets vs. Denver Nuggets, 63-121 (2009 First Round, Game 4)

In the 2009 NBA playoffs, the New Orleans Hornets suffered a crushing defeat in Game 4 of the First Round against the Denver Nuggets, enduring a staggering 58-point loss with a final score of 63-121. This lopsided result, which took place at the New Orleans Arena, stands as the Hornets’ largest playoff blowout in franchise history.

Despite the Hornets’ efforts to rally, they were unable to contain the Nuggets’ relentless attack, ultimately succumbing to one of the most significant defeats in playoff history. This loss marked the end of the Hornets’ postseason run for that year.

New York Knicks: -41 Points

New York Knicks @ Chicago Bulls, 85-126 (1991 First Round, Game 1)

In the 1991 NBA playoffs, the New York Knicks faced a daunting challenge in Game 1 of the First Round against the Chicago Bulls, enduring a 41-point loss with a final score of 85-126. This defeat, which occurred at the Chicago Stadium, marked the Knicks’ largest playoff blowout in franchise history.

Despite their efforts to mount a comeback, the Knicks were unable to contain the Bulls’ onslaught, ultimately succumbing to one of their most lopsided playoff defeats. This loss set the tone for the series, which the Bulls went on to win convincingly that series and eventually the Championship.

Oklahoma City Thunder: -35 Points

San Antonio Spurs vs. Oklahoma City Thunder, 112-77 (2014 Western Conference Finals, Game 2)

In Game 2 of the 2014 Western Conference Finals, the Oklahoma City Thunder suffered a significant defeat at the hands of the San Antonio Spurs, losing by 35 points with a final score of 77-112. This game, played at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, marked one of the Thunder’s most substantial playoff blowouts in franchise history.

The Spurs, known for their precision offense and suffocating defense, dominated the Thunder from the opening tip-off. Led by their veteran core of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili, the Spurs executed their game plan to perfection, stifling the Thunder’s offense while capitalizing on scoring opportunities at the other end of the court.

Orlando Magic: -38 Points

Orlando Magic @ Chicago Bulls, 83-121 (1996 Eastern Conference Finals, Game 1)

In Game 1 of the 1996 Eastern Conference Finals, the Orlando Magic suffered a significant defeat against the Chicago Bulls, enduring a 38-point loss with a final score of 83-121. This game stands as the Magic’s largest playoff blowout in franchise history.

This loss served as a wake-up call for the Magic, highlighting the level of competition they faced against the Bulls, who would go on to win the series and eventually the NBA championship that season. While the Magic would bounce back in subsequent games, this Game 1 defeat underscored the challenges they encountered on their journey through the playoffs.

Philadelphia 76ers: -40 Points

Philadelphia 76ers @ Boston Celtics, 81-121 (1982 Eastern Conference Finals, Game 1)

In the opening game of the 1982 Eastern Conference Finals, the Philadelphia 76ers faced a daunting challenge against the Boston Celtics, suffering a resounding defeat with a 40-point deficit in a final score of 81-121. Played at the iconic Boston Garden, this game remains the 76ers’ largest playoff blowout in franchise history.

Led by basketball legends Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish, the Celtics dominated from the start, showcasing their offensive prowess and tenacious defense. Despite the efforts of stars like Julius Erving and Moses Malone, the 76ers struggled to contain the Celtics’ relentless attack.

Phoenix Suns: -44 Points

Phoenix Suns @ Seattle SuperSonics, 78-122 (1997 First Round, Game 2)

In Game 2 of the 1997 First Round, the Phoenix Suns faced a daunting challenge against the Seattle SuperSonics, enduring a staggering 44-point loss with a final score of 78-122. This game, played at KeyArena in Seattle, marks the Suns’ largest playoff blowout in franchise history.

While the Suns would look to regroup and bounce back in subsequent games, this Game 2 loss underscored the resilience required to compete at the highest level of the playoffs. The SuperSonics went on to win the series against the Suns, advancing to the next round. They reached the NBA Finals that year but were defeated by the Chicago Bulls.

Portland Trail Blazers: -38 Points

Portland Trail Blazers vs. Utah Jazz, 64-102 (1996 First Round, Game 5)

In Game 5 of the 1996 First Round, the Portland Trail Blazers faced a significant defeat against the Utah Jazz, enduring a 38-point loss with a final score of 64-102. Despite their efforts, the Trail Blazers struggled to contain the Jazz’s relentless offense and stout defense throughout the game.

The Portland Trail Blazers were eliminated by the Utah Jazz in the First Round, losing the series 4-1. The Utah Jazz advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals but were ultimately defeated by the Seattle SuperSonics.

Sacramento Kings: -34 Points

Sacramento Kings @ San Antonio Spurs, 88-122 (2006 First Round, Game 1)

In Game 1 of the 2006 First Round, the Sacramento Kings faced a significant defeat against the San Antonio Spurs, enduring a 34-point loss with a final score of 88-122. This game marks the Kings’ largest playoff blowout in franchise history. The Kings struggled to contain the Spurs’ offensive onslaught, led by stars like Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili.

Despite their efforts, the Kings were unable to match the Spurs’ intensity and fell short in Game 1. Ultimately, the Sacramento Kings were eliminated by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2006 First Round, losing the series 4-2. The Spurs advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals but were defeated by the Dallas Mavericks.

San Antonio Spurs: -47 Points

San Antonio Spurs @ Los Angeles Lakers, 88-135 (1986 First Round, Game 1)

In Game 1 of the 1986 First Round, the San Antonio Spurs endured a significant defeat against the Los Angeles Lakers, suffering a crushing 47-point loss with a final score of 88-135. This game stands as the Spurs’ largest playoff blowout in franchise history.

Despite their efforts, the Spurs struggled to contain the Lakers’ potent offense, led by stars like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The defeat in Game 1 set the tone for the series, as the San Antonio Spurs were ultimately eliminated by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1986 First Round. The Lakers went on to advance in the playoffs, ultimately falling short of the NBA Finals.

Toronto Raptors: -38 Points

Toronto Raptors @ Cleveland Cavaliers, 78-116 (2016 Eastern Conference Finals, Game 5)

In Game 5 of the 2016 Eastern Conference Finals, the Toronto Raptors faced a significant defeat against the Cleveland Cavaliers, enduring a 38-point loss with a final score of 78-116. This game stands as the Raptors’ largest playoff blowout in franchise history.

The defeat in Game 5 ultimately sealed the fate of the Toronto Raptors in the 2016 Eastern Conference Finals, as they were eliminated by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavaliers went on to win the NBA Championship that year, defeating the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals.

Utah Jazz: -42 Points

Utah Jazz @ Chicago Bulls, 54-96 (1998 NBA Finals, Game 3)

Game 3 of the 1998 NBA Finals marked a difficult moment for the Utah Jazz as they faced the Chicago Bulls. In a devastating blow, the Jazz endured their largest playoff deficit in franchise history, succumbing to a crushing 42-point loss with a final score of 54-96.

The loss in Game 3 proved to be a significant setback for the Utah Jazz in their quest for an NBA Championship. Despite their resilience, they were unable to overcome the Bulls in the Finals, with Chicago ultimately securing their sixth NBA title.

Washington Wizards: -43 Points

Washington Bullets vs. Detroit Pistons, 85-128 (1987 First Round, Game 2)

In Game 2 of the 1987 First Round, the Washington Bullets faced a significant defeat against the Detroit Pistons, enduring a 43-point loss with a final score of 85-128. This game stands as the Bullets’ largest playoff blowout in franchise history.

Despite their efforts, the Bullets struggled to contain the Pistons’ offensive firepower, led by stars like Isiah Thomas and Adrian Dantley. The Pistons dominated the game from start to finish, leaving the Bullets with a steep deficit. The defeat in Game 2 was a challenging moment for the Washington Bullets in the 1987 playoffs. Despite their resilience, they were unable to overcome the Pistons in the series, ultimately falling short in the First Round.