How many times has a team come back from 2-0 in the NBA Finals?

The Dallas Mavericks find themselves in a precarious position in the 2024 NBA Finals, having dropped the series’ first two games to the Boston Celtics at the TD Garden. The Celtics asserted dominance in the first game with a commanding 107-89 victory. In the second game over the weekend, they secured a 105-98 win against the Mavericks, further solidifying their control of the series.

All historical cases when teams got back from 2-0 in the NBA Finals

Only five teams have historically overcome a 0-2 deficit in the NBA Finals. The team led by Luca Doncic and Kyrie Irving still has a chance to achieve this rare feat.

Milwaukee Bucks in 2021:

In 2021, the Milwaukee Bucks, captained by Giannis Antetokounmpo, secured the championship after an impressive comeback in a six-game series against the Phoenix Suns. Despite initially falling behind 2-0, the Bucks rallied to win four consecutive games and claim victory.

Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016:

In what many consider the most legendary comeback in NBA history, the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by LeBron James, defied the odds after trailing 2-0 and then 3-1 in the series. Against the formidable Golden State Warriors, who boasted an extraordinary regular-season record of 73-9, the Cavaliers fought back to win Game 7 of the Finals. As a result of his outstanding performance, ‘King’ James was rightfully awarded the MVP of the Finals.

Miami Heat in 2006:

In the first two matchups, the Dallas Mavericks pulled off surprising victories against the Heat. However, led by Dwyane Wade, the Miami team eventually came out victorious in the sixth game to secure their first Larry O’Brien Trophy.

Portland Trail Blazers in 1977:

The Portland Trail Blazers secured their first and only championship in franchise history behind the recently deceased Bill Walton’s stellar performance. They achieved a remarkable comeback after trailing 0-2, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers in six highly competitive games.

Boston Celtics in 1969:

In their last title win with Bill Russell, the Boston Celtics triumphed over the Los Angeles Lakers in a thrilling seventh game of the series.