vs.

1968 NBA Finals vs. 1969 NBA Finals

What's the Difference?

The 1968 NBA Finals saw the Boston Celtics defeat the Los Angeles Lakers in six games, with Bill Russell leading the way for the Celtics. In contrast, the 1969 NBA Finals saw the Lakers exact their revenge, defeating the Celtics in seven games. This time, it was Jerry West who shined for the Lakers, earning the Finals MVP award. Both series were highly competitive and featured some of the greatest players in NBA history, making them memorable moments in basketball history.

Comparison

Attribute1968 NBA Finals1969 NBA Finals
ChampionBoston CelticsLos Angeles Lakers
Runner-upLos Angeles LakersBoston Celtics
Series Result4-24-3
Finals MVPBill RussellJerry West
Top ScorerElgin BaylorJerry West

Further Detail

Teams

In the 1968 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics faced off against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Celtics were led by legendary players such as Bill Russell, John Havlicek, and Sam Jones. On the other side, the Lakers had stars like Elgin Baylor and Jerry West. The Celtics were the dominant team of the era, having won multiple championships in the years leading up to the 1968 Finals. The Lakers, on the other hand, were looking to establish themselves as a powerhouse in the league.

For the 1969 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics once again made it to the championship series, this time facing the Los Angeles Lakers once more. The Celtics were still led by Bill Russell, who was known for his defensive prowess and leadership on the court. The Lakers, on the other hand, had added Wilt Chamberlain to their roster, forming a formidable trio with Baylor and West. This matchup was highly anticipated, as it pitted two of the greatest teams of the era against each other.

Gameplay

The style of play in the 1968 NBA Finals was characterized by physicality and defense. The Celtics, under the leadership of Bill Russell, were known for their suffocating defense and ability to control the pace of the game. On the other hand, the Lakers relied on the scoring prowess of Baylor and West to keep them in contention. The series was closely contested, with both teams trading blows throughout the games.

In the 1969 NBA Finals, the gameplay was more fast-paced and high-scoring compared to the previous year. With the addition of Wilt Chamberlain to the Lakers' lineup, the team had a dominant presence in the paint and was able to score at will. The Celtics, on the other hand, continued to rely on their team defense and unselfish play to counter the Lakers' offensive firepower. The series featured several high-scoring games and memorable performances from both teams.

Outcome

In the 1968 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics emerged victorious, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in six games. The Celtics' experience and team chemistry proved to be the difference in the series, as they were able to execute in crucial moments and make key defensive stops. Bill Russell was named the Finals MVP for his outstanding performance on both ends of the court. The Lakers, on the other hand, fell short despite the best efforts of Baylor and West.

For the 1969 NBA Finals, the outcome was reversed, with the Los Angeles Lakers defeating the Boston Celtics in seven games. The addition of Wilt Chamberlain to the Lakers' lineup proved to be the difference-maker, as he dominated the paint and controlled the boards throughout the series. Jerry West was named the Finals MVP for his clutch performances and leadership on the court. The Celtics, on the other hand, were unable to contain the Lakers' offensive firepower and fell just short of winning another championship.

Legacy

The 1968 NBA Finals solidified the Boston Celtics' place as one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history. With their victory over the Lakers, the Celtics added another championship to their storied franchise and further cemented Bill Russell's legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. The series also showcased the intense rivalry between the Celtics and Lakers, setting the stage for future matchups between the two teams.

On the other hand, the 1969 NBA Finals marked a turning point for the Los Angeles Lakers, as they were able to finally overcome the Celtics and win a championship. The addition of Wilt Chamberlain to the team proved to be the missing piece that propelled them to victory. The series also solidified the legacies of players like Jerry West and Elgin Baylor, who had been perennial contenders but had fallen short in previous years.

Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. Please report any issues.