Milwaukee Bucks: Ranking the 10 greatest seasons in franchise history
By Adam McGee
3. 1971-72 season
63-19, Lost 4-2 in Conference Finals
Entering the season as defending champions, it appeared as if the world was at the Bucks’ feet in 1971-72, and that little, if anything, could stand in their way from marching to a second championship success.
The regular season saw Abdul-Jabbar improve upon his already incredible play from the year before, becoming an even more dominant scorer and rebounder and looking hungry for another chance at championship glory.
On the whole, the Bucks remained a remarkably dominant force by leading the league in defensive rating and ranking second in offensive rating, making them close to the complete team.
Related Story. Get to know the 1971-72 team. light
As the playoffs came around, everything continued to appear as if it was going to plan for Milwaukee. Light work was made of Nate Thurmond and his Golden State Warriors as the Bucks completed a gentleman’s sweep to advance beyond the Conference Semi-Finals.
Waiting for them in the Western Conference Finals was an aging Los Angeles Lakers team, who in truth the Bucks should have been able to take care of. That sense was only further emphasized following a Game 1 road win for Milwaukee, yet Lakers wins in two very close contests over the next two games turned the series on its head.
Ultimately, Milwaukee only managed to take Game 4 from that point on, losing to the Lakers and rounding out a season built on frequently dominant play in a fashion that could only be associated with massive underachievement many years later.