The Longest Losing Streaks By Every NBA Team

Amidst the current struggles faced by the Detroit Pistons, marked by a challenging 2-28 record and an ongoing streak of 27 consecutive losses, we embark on an insightful exploration into the darkest chapters of each NBA franchise. 

From the unprecedented hardships of the Detroit Pistons to the enduring spirit of others, join us as we delve into the tumultuous histories that define the essence of every NBA team.

Atlanta Hawks – 20 Games (2004-2005)

The 2004-2005 season would be etched into the history of the Atlanta Hawks as a formidable challenge emerged—a relentless 20-game losing streak that tested the team’s mettle and resolve. Each defeat seemed like a mountain to climb, but even in the face of adversity, the Hawks revealed a remarkable level of resilience and determination. It was during these trying times that the character of the team began to take shape, laying the groundwork for future successes.

Despite the significant losing streak, the Atlanta Hawks finished the 2004-2005 season in the Eastern Conference with a challenging record of 20 wins and 62 losses, landing them in the 13th position. In this trying season, standout players included Joe Johnson, averaging 25.6 points per game, and Josh Smith, contributing 10.3 rebounds per game and 2.5 blocks per game.

Boston Celtics – 18 Games (1996-1997)

The 1996-1997 season stands as a pivotal chapter in the storied history of the Boston Celtics—a season marked not just by victories and defeats but by a formidable test of resilience. A challenging 18-game losing streak became the crucible in which the Celtics’ mettle was tested, pushing the team to its limits. Each loss presented an opportunity for introspection and growth, and as the season unfolded, the Celtics found themselves facing adversity head-on.

The Boston Celtics concluded the 1996-1997 season in the Eastern Conference with a record of 15 wins and 67 losses, placing them in the 14th position. Notable players during this season included Antoine Walker, with notable statistics such as 22.8 points per game. The turning point came with the 1997 NBA Draft, where the Celtics aimed to reshape their future by selecting Chauncey Billups, although he was eventually traded to the Raptors in 1998.

Brooklyn Nets – 18 Games (2009-2010)

The 2009-2010 NBA season presented a formidable challenge for the Brooklyn Nets as they grappled with an enduring 18-game losing streak, necessitating a fundamental reassessment of team strategies and dynamics. 

Notable players for the 2009-2010 season included Brook Lopez, who led the team in scoring with an average of 18.8 points per game, and Devin Harris, a dynamic point guard contributing with 16.9 points and 6.6 assists per game.

In the Eastern Conference, the Nets concluded the season with a challenging record of 12 wins and 70 losses, securing the 15th position. Despite the hardships, the Nets focused on rebuilding during the subsequent 2010 NBA Draft. Derrick Favors was strategically chosen, his selection aimed at injecting fresh energy and talent into the roster.

Charlotte Hornets – 23 Games (2011-2012)

The Charlotte Hornets faced a formidable challenge during the 2011-2012 NBA season, enduring an unprecedented 23-game losing streak—a period that tested the team’s mettle and resolve. The season concluded with a record of 7 wins and 59 losses, underscoring the significant difficulties faced on the court. 

Gerald Henderson, who led the team in scoring with an average of 15.1 points per game, and Kemba Walker, a rising star contributing with 12.1 points and 4.4 assists per game, were the only positives of that season for the Bobcats, as that was their name at the time.

Chicago Bulls – 16 Games (2000-2001)

The 2000-2001 NBA season marked a challenging stretch for the Chicago Bulls as they navigated through a formidable 16-game losing streak. This tough period became a litmus test for the team’s character, with each defeat serving as an opportunity for introspection and growth. 

Ron Mercer led the team with an average of 19.7 points per game, and Elton Brand contributed with 10.0 rebounds per game. As the season drew to a close, the Bulls found themselves with a record of 15 wins and 67 losses—a reflection of the hardships endured on the court. Despite the setbacks, the Bulls viewed this as a chance for renewal, a pivotal moment to reshape their trajectory.

Cleveland Cavaliers – 26 Games (2010-2011)

The 2010-2011 NBA season posed a daunting challenge for the Cleveland Cavaliers as they weathered an unprecedented 26-game losing streak. This prolonged struggle became a defining moment, shaping the trajectory of the team and pushing them to confront adversity head-on. 

The season concluded with the Cavaliers holding a record of 19 wins and 63 losses. In the 2011 NBA Draft, the Cavaliers secured the first overall pick and selected Kyrie Irving, a player who would go on to become a cornerstone for the franchise’s rebuilding efforts. Key players for the 2010-2011 season included Antawn Jamison, leading the team with an average of 18.0 points per game, and J.J. Hickson, contributing with 8.7 rebounds per game.

Dallas Mavericks – 13 Games (1993-1994)

The 1993-1994 NBA season posed significant challenges for the Dallas Mavericks as they navigated through a formidable 13-game losing streak. Each defeat brought its own set of hurdles, and the season ultimately concluded with a record of 11 wins and 71 losses.

The Mavericks concluded the season securing the 13th position in the Western Conference standings. In the face of adversity, Jamal Mashburn led the team with an impressive average of 24.1 points per game, demonstrating scoring prowess. In the subsequent 1994 NBA Draft, the Mavericks strategically selected Jason Kidd, a transformative move that signaled the beginning of a promising era for the franchise.

Denver Nuggets – 20 Games (1997-1998)

The 1997-1998 NBA season presented formidable challenges for the Denver Nuggets, marked by a demanding 20-game losing streak. Despite the hardships, the Nuggets saw the 1997-1998 season as a turning point for their growth. The season concluded with a record of 11 wins and 71 losses.

In the Western Conference standings, the Nuggets found themselves in a challenging 14th position, emphasizing the impact of their extended struggles. Key players for the 1997-1998 season included LaPhonso Ellis, who led the team with an average of 21.9 points per game, showcasing scoring prowess. Additionally, Antonio McDyess contributed with 8.8 rebounds per game.

Detroit Pistons – 28 Games (2023-2024)

As of the current midseason in the 2023-2024 campaign, the Detroit Pistons find themselves in the midst of their most formidable losing streak to date. With a current record of 2 wins and 29 losses, the team has encountered a staggering 28 consecutive defeats, surpassing their previous franchise record of 19 in 1993-1994. 

This challenging period, though undeniably difficult, presents a crucial opportunity for the Pistons to reassess and rebuild, emphasizing growth and development in the seasons to come. The ongoing struggles highlight the team’s unwavering determination in the face of adversity, underscoring the crucial role resilience plays in navigating the challenges of an NBA season.

Golden State Warriors – 17 Games (1995-1996)

In the 1995-1996 NBA season, the Golden State Warriors faced a formidable challenge, enduring a trying stretch with 17 consecutive losses. However, this setback did not define the Warriors, and the season ultimately concluded with a record of 17 wins and 65 losses. 

In the Western Conference standings, the Warriors found themselves in a challenging 13th position. Despite the difficulties, the team showcased their resilience and used the season’s setbacks as motivation. Latrell Sprewell averaged 19.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4 assists per game as the main player that season.

Houston Rockets – 15 Games (1982-1983)

The Houston Rockets confronted adversity head-on during the 1982-1983 NBA season, enduring a challenging 15-game losing streak. As the season unfolded, the Rockets found themselves grappling with setbacks, ultimately concluding with a record of 14 wins and 68 losses.

In the Western Conference standings, the team found themselves in a challenging 13th position, highlighting the difficulties they encountered. In the 1983 draft, they selected Ralph Sampson, who contributed with 21 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game, passing up on Michael Jordan with their #1 overall pick.

Indiana Pacers – 20 Games (1988-1989)

During the 1988-1989 NBA season, the Indiana Pacers faced a formidable challenge, navigating through a grueling 20-game losing streak. This difficult period tested the mettle of the team, and the season concluded with a record of 17 wins and 65 losses.

The Pacers concluded the season with a record of 17 wins and 65 losses, finding themselves in a challenging 11th position in the Eastern Conference standings. The sharpshooter, Reggie Miller, showcased his scoring prowess, averaging an impressive 24.6 points per game. His dynamic playstyle and leadership became beacons of hope for the team.

Los Angeles Clippers – 16 Games (1986-1987)

The 1986-1987 NBA season posed significant challenges for the Los Angeles Clippers, as they endured a formidable 16-game losing streak. The Clippers concluded with a record of 12 wins and 70 losses. 

In the Western Conference standings, the team found themselves in a challenging 11th position. Derek Smith averaged 22.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. Larry Drew provided stability with 17.5 points and 7.7 assists per game, serving as a playmaker for the team.

Los Angeles Lakers – 19 Games (2015-2016)

The Los Angeles Lakers encountered a formidable challenge during the 2015-2016 NBA season, enduring a grueling 19-game losing streak that tested the resilience of the storied franchise. 

The Lakers concluded the season with a record of 17 wins and 65 losses. In the Western Conference standings, the team found themselves in a challenging 15th position. In his farewell season, Kobe Bryant showcased his legendary scoring ability, averaging 17.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game.

Memphis Grizzlies – 23 Games (1995-1996)

The 1995-1996 NBA season posed considerable challenges for the Memphis Grizzlies, then known as the Vancouver Grizzlies, as they weathered a daunting 23-game losing streak. 

The Grizzlies ended with a record of 22 wins and 60 losses and found themselves in a challenging 13th position, highlighting the hurdles they faced. They selected Shareef Abdur-Rahim 3rd overall in the 1996 NBA Draft, and he made an immediate impact, averaging 18.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game.

Miami Heat – 17 Games (2007-2008)

The 2007-2008 NBA season presented a formidable challenge for the Miami Heat, marked by a grueling 17-game losing streak that tested the team’s character. The season concluded with a record of 15 wins and 67 losses.

In the Eastern Conference standings, the team grappled with a challenging 15th position. In the midst of the team’s trials, Dwyane Wade exhibited brilliance, averaging an impressive 24 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game.

Shortly after, the Heat assembled one of the greatest Big 3s ever with the signings of LeBron James and Chris Bosh in 2010, joining forces with Dwyane Wade and winning two NBA championships in the next few years.

Milwaukee Bucks – 15 Games (1993-1994)

The 1993-1994 NBA season posed significant challenges for the Milwaukee Bucks, marked by a formidable 15-game losing streak. The Bucks wrapped up the 1993-1994 NBA season with a tally of 15 victories against 67 defeats. In the Eastern Conference standings, their placement ended up at the demanding 13th position.

Milwaukee picked Glenn Robinson as the 1st pick of the 1994 NBA Draft, as Robinson made an immediate impact, showcasing his scoring prowess with 21.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game in the following season.

Minnesota Timberwolves – 18 Games (2014-2015)

The 2014-2015 NBA season unfolded as a challenging stretch for the Minnesota Timberwolves, enduring an 18-game losing streak. Minnesota wrapped the season up with 16 wins and 66 losses, securing the 15th position in the competitive Western Conference standings.

Key contributors during this challenging season included Andrew Wiggins, displaying scoring prowess, and averaged 16.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. Karl-Anthony Towns, the first overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, showcased his impact with 18.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game the following season.

New Orleans Pelicans – 13 Games (2012-2013)

The 2012-2013 NBA season presented a daunting challenge for the New Orleans Pelicans as they endured a formidable 13-game losing streak.

In the Western Conference standings, the team found themselves in a challenging 15th position with a record of 17 wins and 65 losses. Anthony Davis was the No. 1 overall pick in the following Draft, and he twisted the fate of the franchise with an impressive rookie season of 13.5 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game.

New York Knicks – 20 Games (2014-2015)

Navigating a grueling 20-game losing streak, the New York Knicks displayed remarkable resilience during the challenging 2014-2015 NBA season. Concluding the campaign with a record of 17 wins and 65 losses, the team secured the 15th position in the Eastern Conference, highlighting the formidable hurdles overcome.

Noteworthy contributions came from veteran forward Carmelo Anthony, showcasing leadership with 24.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. Young guard Langston Galloway provided a spark with 11.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game.

Oklahoma City Thunder – 12 Games (2008-2009)

The 2008-2009 NBA season presented a challenging stretch for the Oklahoma City Thunder, marked by a demanding 12-game losing streak. This difficult period tested the team’s mettle, and the season ultimately concluded with a record of 23 wins and 59 losses.

The emerging star Kevin Durant showcased his scoring finesse with 25.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Russell Westbrook, making his mark in his rookie season, displayed promise with 15.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, laying the groundwork for a remarkable career.

Orlando Magic – 23 Games (1989-1990)

The 1989-1990 NBA season presented a daunting challenge for the Orlando Magic, as they navigated through a grueling 23-game losing streak. The campaign concluded with a record of 18 wins and 64 losses.

The Magic found themselves in the 12th position in the Eastern Conference standings. Nick Anderson, who averaged 11.5 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, was a key contributor to the team. Playmaking point guard Scott Skiles provided stability with 12.8 points and 7.7 assists per game.

Philadelphia 76ers – 28 Games (2015-2016)

The Philadelphia 76ers navigated an unprecedented 28-game losing streak during the challenging 2015-2016 NBA season, marking a period that tested the team’s resilience. With all the hardships, the season concluded with a record of 10 wins and 72 losses.

The 76ers secured the 15th and final position in the Eastern Conference standings, highlighting the formidable hurdles they faced throughout the season. Rookie center Jahlil Okafor showcased promise with an average of 17.5 points and 7.0 rebounds per game, while a young Nerlens Noel contributed defensively with 11.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game.

Phoenix Suns – 18 Games (1973-1974)

The Phoenix Suns faced a historic challenge during the 1973-74 NBA season, enduring their longest consecutive road game losing streak of 18 games. Concluding the season with a record of 30 wins and 52 losses, the Suns found themselves in the 9th position in the Western Conference standings.

Key players who stood out during this testing season included guard Dick Van Arsdale, who contributed with 16.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Power forward Paul Silas showcased his skills with 12.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. 

Portland Trail Blazers – 13 Games (1971-1972)

The Portland Trail Blazers faced adversity during the 1971-1972 season, enduring a 13-game losing streak. This challenging stretch tested the team’s character, and the season concluded with a record of 21 wins and 61 losses.

Key players who played pivotal roles during this testing season included center-forward Sidney Wicks, contributing with 24.5 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Guard Geoff Petrie showcased his scoring ability with 24.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game.

Sacramento Kings – 12 Games (1997-1998)

The Sacramento Kings encountered a challenging stretch during the 1997-98 NBA season, enduring a significant period of 12 consecutive losses. With 27 wins and 55 losses, Sacramento ended in the 9th position of the West.

Key players who played pivotal roles during this testing season included forward-center Corliss Williamson, contributing with 17.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. In addition, point guard Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf showcased his scoring and playmaking skills with 13.9 points and 4.3 assists per game. 

San Antonio Spurs – 18 Games (2023-2024)

The San Antonio Spurs navigated through a challenging stretch during this 2023-24 NBA season, enduring their longest losing streak in franchise history with 18 consecutive losses.

As the season progresses, the Spurs find themselves in the 15th position in the competitive Western Conference standings with a record of 4 wins and 25 losses. A standout amidst the difficulties is rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, who has emerged as a promising force on the court. Wembanyama’s impressive averages of 18.3 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game underscore his impact and potential as a key player for the Spurs’ rebuilding efforts. 

Toronto Raptors – 17 Games (1997-1998)

In the 1997-1998 season, the Toronto Raptors encountered a challenging period, enduring a 17-game losing streak. Despite the difficulties, the season served as a turning point for the team’s growth, and it concluded with a record of 17 wins and 66 losses.

Toronto wrapped up the season as the 15th seed in a competitive Eastern Conference. Young guard Tracy McGrady showed flashes of greatness, contributing with 9.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. The Raptors ended up with Vince Carter after the following Draft.

Utah Jazz – 18 Games (1981-1982)

The Utah Jazz endured their longest losing streak in franchise history with 18 consecutive losses in 1982. As the season concluded, the Jazz found themselves with a record of 25 wins and 57 losses, securing the 14th position in the competitive Western Conference.

Key players who played pivotal roles during this testing season included forward Adrian Dantley, contributing with an impressive 30.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. 

Washington Wizards – 16 Games (2009-2010)

Enduring a challenging 2009-10 NBA season, the Washington Wizards faced their longest losing streak in franchise history with 16 consecutive defeats. This testing stretch became a crucible for the team’s resilience, prompting introspection and a collective commitment to growth.

Closing the season with a record of 26 wins and 56 losses, the Wizards secured the 14th position in the Eastern Conference. Despite the hardships, key players like guard-forward Caron Butler, with 16.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, and center-forward Antawn Jamison, contributing 20.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game, showcased resilience, laying the groundwork for a more competitive future.