The NBA’s 10 best rivalries, ranked for 2026-27 season with every matchup to circle
It’s hard for an NBA rivalry to stand the test of time. Superstars change teams, coaches get fired, and especially in the second apron era, it’s harder than ever to maintain roster continuity year-after-year. The best rivalry in the NBA felt like the Golden State Warriors vs. the Cleveland Cavaliers for a while after the […]
10. New York Knicks vs. Miami Heat
The Knicks and Heat played in the playoffs for four straight years from 1997-2000, with the Heat eventually winning in six games in the 2023 playoffs. Veteran coach Pat Riley remains with Miami, keeping the connection alive between the two franchises. While Miami's chances of beating the reigning champion Knicks are slim, they still have a chance to build a contender around Giannis Antetokounmpo in the coming years.
9. Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors
The Rockets and Warriors faced each other five times in the playoffs between 2015 and 2018, with Golden State ultimately advancing in three of those matchups. The 2018 Western Conference Finals saw a memorable 7-for-44 shooting performance by Houston. While the Warriors' decline has made this rivalry less intense, the games still hold significance for Houston.
8. Dallas Mavericks vs. Los Angeles Lakers
The Mavs and Lakers met in the playoffs five times between 2015 and 2019, with the Lakers prevailing in four of those series. Dallas rebounded well after drafting Cooper Flagg in the 2024 draft and hopes he can develop into a Luka Doncic-level player. The biggest game on the schedule will likely be the matchups against the Lakers, as Flagg enters his second season.
Written by urgent.news from SB Nation's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
