The Cleveland Cavaliers hold the record for the longest losing streak in NBA history, with 26 consecutive losses during the 2010-2011 season. This streak occurred shortly after LeBron James left Cleveland for the Miami Heat, leaving the Cavaliers without their franchise player. The team struggled to adjust to the new lineup, and their poor performance was reflected in this NBA teams with longest losing streaks. Despite the challenges, the Cavs would eventually rebuild, drafting future stars like Kyrie Irving and eventually bringing LeBron back to win a championship in 2016.
Philadelphia 76ers (28-Game Losing Streak, 2014-2015 & 2015-2016)
The Philadelphia 76ers endured a painful stretch between the 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 seasons, where they lost 28 straight games across two seasons. This stretch was part of their “Trust the Process” era, where the team intentionally tanked to rebuild through high draft picks. While the strategy led to losing seasons, it eventually paid off, as the team drafted key players like Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, who helped return the 76ers to playoff contention in later years.
Charlotte Bobcats (23-Game Losing Streak, 2011-2012)
The Charlotte Bobcats (now the Hornets) had a disastrous 2011-2012 season, highlighted by a 23-game losing streak. This streak occurred during the lockout-shortened season, where the Bobcats finished with a 7-59 record, the worst winning percentage in NBA history. The team struggled on both ends of the floor, lacking star power and cohesion. However, Charlotte used their high draft picks from this period to build a more competitive roster in the following seasons.
Vancouver Grizzlies (23-Game Losing Streak, 1995-1996)
The Vancouver Grizzlies (now the Memphis Grizzlies) experienced a rough introduction to the NBA with a 23-game losing streak in their inaugural season (1995-1996). As an expansion team, the Grizzlies struggled to find chemistry and talent, leading to a difficult start in the league. While Vancouver was never able to turn things around before relocating to Memphis, the Grizzlies franchise has since seen much more success, becoming a consistent playoff contender in recent years.
Denver Nuggets (23-Game Losing Streak, 1997-1998)
The Denver Nuggets went through one of their toughest periods during the 1997-1998 season when they lost 23 straight games. With a lack of depth and direction, the team was unable to compete against most NBA teams. The Nuggets would continue to struggle for a few more seasons, but eventually found success in the 2000s by drafting Carmelo Anthony and building a competitive roster around him.