50 Most Important NBA Moments of 2011

The NBA has officially entered 2012, rendering 2011 history, which is fitting considering what a historic year it was for the league.

Last year was a busy one for the Association to say the least. Interest had never been higher, turmoil had never been more prevalent and uncertainty had never run more rampant.

Does 2012 promise to bring much of the same? Perhaps, yet even if it is half as eventful as last year, there will be no shortage of significant moments, milestones and overall accolades, both on and off the court, to bury ourselves in.  

Chuck Hayes Contract Voided

Chuck Hayes' contract was voided by the Sacramento Kings after he failed a team physical. Days later, he signed with the Kings once again for over $1 million more than before.

His physical had revealed an abnormality with his heart that required further testing. It had the makings of a Jeff Green-type situation until he was once again cleared to play.

Hayes' contract situation was not only important because of what it made the basketball world privy to, but also because had Sacramento caved in and thrown more money Samuel Dalembert's way, they would have missed out on the opportunity to land the athletic big man.

From highs to lows, Hayes had a flurry of moments that were very important to how this NBA season would play out.

Lamar Odom Wins NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award

Lamar Odom may no longer be a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, but it is with them he solidified his legacy as one of the best role players to ever grace the court.

When Odom was named the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year, it confirmed a belief that most already had, as he was a stud off the bench.

Role players are often overlooked, but at least one time a year the importance of a strong bench is emphasized, and Odom was deservedly pushed into the spotlight this time around.

Dwight Howard Asks for a Trade

Perhaps we all knew it was coming, but when Dwight Howard officially asked for a trade, his potential departure from the Orlando Magic became incredibly real.

It doesn't matter if the star center is still open to remaining with Orlando, the fact that he requested to be dealt in the first place is significant. The resolution to the Howard saga will change the landscape of the NBA for years to come.

When we finally reach its conclusion, we can point to 2011 as the breaking point. 

Ron Artest Becomes Metta World Peace

After tainting the brand that was Ron Artest by facilitating Malice at the Palace over seven years ago, Metta World Peace was born.

World Peace's name change not only marked an athlete's attempt to reinvent himself, but also represented the capricious nature that is the NBA culture.

NBA Closes Its Doors

On July 1st, 2011, the NBA embarked a brutal 160-day-long journey that was the NBA lockout.

When the league shut its doors, few knew what to make of the work stoppage. Optimism and pessimism took turns dominating headlines, and speculation regarding the current season ran rampant.

The beginning of the lockout was certainly an important moment for the NBA, but it is also certainly one that we would all like to forget.

Deron Williams Becomes a Trend-Setter

When Deron Williams agreed to take his talents to Turkey, he set an example for his fellow NBA players.

Staring down the barrel of a lockout, Williams sent a message to both the players and the league that made it clear the athletes had other options. Potential overseas departures began to dominated headlines, and a handful of names even followed suit.

Williams also exhibited his intelligence in this matter, as he chose a league that allowed him to return stateside once the lockout concluded.

Sorry, Kenyon Martin.

Blake Griffin's High-Flying Accolade

Blake Griffin won the 2011 NBA Slam-Dunk Competition with style, clearing a Kia Optima in the final round.

This occurrence was important for a number of reasons. Griffin's decision to hold off on such a dunk until the last round either proof that he is incredibly confident, or he was making it that far in the competition no matter what.

The aforementioned notion doesn't matter much though, as the dunk-off is all in good fun. The most important piece of knowledge to take away from this high-flying accolade is that the NBA remains a place where amazing happens. 

Yao Ming Retires

After eight years of worldwide fame, Yao Ming called it quits in the summer of 2011.

The 7'6" center put up a career average of 10.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game. Those numbers do not even begin to tell the story of his career, though, as prior to his injury-plagued days, he routinely dropped 20 points and grabbed double-digit rebounds in a single contest.

It took less than a decade for Yao to establish himself as one of the game's most important players of all time.

Ty Lawson Three-Point Binge

If you want to get technical, Ty Lawson gave us 10 of the most important NBA moments in 2011, but in the interest of space, let's condense it.

Lawson nailed his first 10 three-point attempts in a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, becoming the first player in NBA history to start a game with that many consecutive three-point conversions.

He missed out on another record by attempting a 28-foot heave to end the third quarter. Had he stopped shooting threes, he would have set an NBA record for most three-pointers made without a miss. 

Nonetheless, this was still impressive.

Bryant Gumbel on David Stern

Bryant Gumbel alluded to the issue of slavery when he referred to David Stern as a "plantation overseer" while the NBA lockout was still in effect.

Stern may be a lot of things, including stubborn, but to call him a "plantation overseer" is a severe exaggeration, and once again proves that in the world of basketball, nothing is off limits.

Memphis Grizzlies Upset Top-Seeded San Antonio Spurs

When the buzzer sounded on April 17, 2011, the eighth-seeded Memphis Grizzlies had upset the top-seeded San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, winning the series 4-2.

The outcome served as the Grizzlies claim to fame, while exposing the Spurs issue with age even further; it essentially changed the landscape of the Western Conference.

San Antonio is off to another fast start this season, but falling to Memphis is a moment that will be embedded in the mind of NBA fans for years to come. 

Tom Thibodeau Named Coach of the Year

Tom Thibodeau's value to the Chicago Bulls organization is often overshadowed by Derrick Rose, but make no mistake that he deserved the Coach of the Year Award more than anyone else.

Rose led the Bulls on the court, but Thibodeau kept the team motivated throughout the whole season, navigating them key injuries, on their way to boasting the league's best record.

While players receive most of the recognition, Thibodeau proved that there is such a thing as a superstar on the sidelines.

Cleveland Cavaliers Defeat LeBron James-Led Miami Heat

When the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Miami Heat 102-90 last season, it was more than just a win.

It didn't matter that the Cavaliers had one of the worst season's in franchise history, nor did it matter that the LeBron James led Heat reached the NBA Finals. All that mattered was Cleveland grabbed one last shining moment at James' expense.

Jerry Sloan Retires Mid-Season

After 30 years with the Utah Jazz organization, 23 of which he spent as head coach, Jerry Sloan retired from his post last season.

The announcement was shocking, yet not so shocking at the same time. Sloan had some serious coaching miles on his resume, and at 69, it was not unthinkable to think he was ready to move on. However, the midseason timing was unexpected and led to countless pages of speculation as to why he chose then to leave.

Sloan is easily one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time, and to call his departure from the game important is an understatement.

Kris Humphries' Divorce

In the interest of the NBA, this must now be referred to as "Kris Humphries' Divorce." 

The league has never broached the realm of reality television in the way it did with Humphries' marriage to Kim Kardashian.

Once the duo disbanded, Humphries became one of the most jeered players in the NBA. Listen as fans boo when he steps on the court or touches the ball. The New Jersey Nets fans have not been too understanding either, although that could also be because the team is set to move to Brooklyn shortly.

Humphries is walking proof that extracurricular activities play a role in what transpires on the court. 

Blake Griffin Named Rookie of the Year

For all those who believe that Blake Griffin was overrated, the ESPN rankings give you a premise, but to deny that the power forward is one of the game's elite players is an argument not worth making.

When Griffin won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award, he joined the ranks of Derrick Rose, Kevin Durant, Chris Paul, LeBron James and Amar'e Stoudemire, among others. This is no ordinary award, as a majority of the time, it is given to an athlete who becomes one of the game's most innovative and heralded players.

Griffin may not be a top-10 player right now, but this award proved he is at least on his way. 

Los Angeles Lakers Get Swept by Dallas Mavericks

When the second round of the Western Conference playoffs concluded, the Dallas Mavericks had swept the Los Angeles Lakers, sending tinsel town into a state of disarray.

After falling in four games to the Mavs, it became clear that the Lakers were headed for some major roster shake-ups. Dwight Howard speculation ensued to the fullest extent and Los Angeles' future came under fire.

Was the Mavs defeat of the Lakers a sign that the NBA's power rankings are about to drastically change? Los Angeles is currently on a mission to ensure that's not the case.

Kobe Bryant's Divorce

As non-basketball related as you think Kobe Bryant's divorce is, it has a potential to affect his game on the court.

Bryant has been immersed in controversy off the court before, but he has rarely let it influence his production on the court. His performance so far this season indicates he is as focused as ever, but as the process progresses and he begins to relinquish some of his fortune, it is not unfathomable to believe that he could struggle to stay the course.

Remember, life off the court often can translate into what transpires on the court.

Kevin Love Named NBA's Most Improved Player

Kevin Love was named the NBA's Most Improved Player in 2011, which helped bolster a reputation that was struggling to gain merit, even after averaging 20.2 points and 15.2 rebounds per game.

Love's efforts on both ends of the floor, while noticed, could have very well been attributed to him playing on a weak Minnesota Timberwolves team. However, this award proves that he is in fact a star on the rise, as he is in company with the likes of Monta Ellis, Danny Granger and Zach Randolph.

The Timberwolves may be a weak team, but Love is anything but a weak athlete feasting off his squad's struggles.

Sacramento Kings Explore Relocation

While the Sacramento Kings eventually decided against relocating to Anaheim, their willingness to explore a potential move is extremely telling, and brings to light the obstacles that some teams face in their current markets.

California is a crowded NBA market, and the Kings would arguably be better off elsewhere, which is why a move to Anaheim may not have made much sense.

Will the team ever leave Sacramento in favor of new digs? That much is unclear, but the Maloof family seems at least open to considering the possibility. 

Portland Trail Blazers Become a Contender

The Portland Trail Blazers officially became legitimate contenders when they acquired Raymond Felton from the Denver Nuggets this past summer.

Felton gave the Blazers a young and explosive floor general who knows how to play alongside a superstar or two. The acquisitions of Jamal Crawford and Kurt Thomas are notable as well, but the championship ball really got rolling with Felton's arrival.

Look for some more important moments from this squad in 2012.

Kobe Bryant Wins NBA All-Star MVP

Kobe Bryant has sent messages to his critics in other ways, but being crowned the 2011 NBA All-Star Game's MVP was one of the most powerful forms of communication he ever engaged in.

Bryant's age has been a hot topic of debate for the past year, with many wondering, as well as doubting, how long he will be able to stay on top. Let us remember though, that while he isn't 25 anymore, he was dubbed the best of the best back in February.

Bryant still has plenty left in the tank, not just as a regular player, but as a superstar.

Dwight Howard Wins Third Consecutive Defensive Player of the Year Award

Dwight Howard was expected to win the Defensive Player of the Year Award for a third consecutive season, yet his attainment of the achievement meant so much more than what it actually stood for.

Howard's effort on that end of the ball has been phenomenal for years, and the fact that he was recognized for his efforts for a third straight time could play a large role in what he decides moving forward.

Clearly, Howard is leaving everything he has on the floor, specifically on defense, yet the Orlando Magic remain mediocre. This achievement confirmed Howard's elite status once again, and if his team is unable to catch up to his level of effort, he may opt to take this award somewhere else.

Players Association Dissolves Union

When the players rejected the NBA's "take it or leave it offer," the prospect of a cancelled season never seemed more real.

Sure, once the lockout officially began, most were aware of the potential dangers, but to have them nearly come to fruition was a whole different experience.

Regardless of whether or not such an announcement was merely a negotiating ploy, this was the moment everyone realized the NBA season was actually in jeopardy.

If that's not important, what is?

Kyrie Irving Becomes a Cavalier

In one of the most shallow drafts the NBA has seen, the Cleveland Cavaliers officially began a new era by selecting Kyrie Irving with the first overall pick.

Irving is no LeBron James, but the Cavaliers are hoping that he can lead them out of the trenches, and into a brighter, more successful period.

Cleveland is nowhere near contention, but Irving's selection gave a lost organization hope. 

Shaquille O'Neal Retires

Shaquille O'Neal is now a former NBA player turned analyst and author after retiring from the game this past summer.

O'Neal was one of the most dominant centers and personalities to ever step foot onto the hardwood. His monstrous stature allowed him to walk over anyone that stood in his way, and his colorful attitude was good for many sound bites.

The low post has never been so empty now that O'Neal has reached life after basketball.

Brook Lopez Injury

Dwight Howard's departure from the Orlando Magic will transform the landscape of the entire league, but Brook Lopez's injury could potentially affect where the star center departs to.

When Howard requested a trade to the New Jersey Nets, it was universally known that Lopez would be an integral part of any offer the organization put forth. Now that Lopez is sidelined after having to surgically repair a stress fracture in his right foot, he may not seem as appealing.

The good news for the Nets is that Orlando is looking for proven veterans in return for Howard, and they are also not keen on dealing him anytime soon. This gives New Jersey time to put other pieces in place as well as get Lopez back on the court.

That being said, who knows how Lopez will fair once he's back. His injury could ultimately determine where Howard lands.

Derrick Rose Wins MVP

At the ripe old age of 22, Derrick Rose won the NBA's MVP award, becoming the youngest player in the history of the league to do so.

His performance over the course of last season was nothing short of spectacular, as he led the Chicago Bulls to the best record in the league and an Eastern Conference Finals appearance.

Rose has barely scratched the surface of his potential, and we should expect to see much more from him as we progress through 2012.

Kobe Bryant Has Innovative Knee Surgery

While his ability to lead the Los Angeles Lakers has come under question, specifically with regards to the status of his knee, Kobe Bryant underwent an experimental knee procedure in Germany during the lockout.

Bryant seems to be a heavy advocate for the innovative surgery, as he recommended that New York Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez undergo the same one, according to the New York Times.

The procedure has not yet been approved by the FDA, making it a risk on Bryant's part. However, if it allows him to play at an All-Star level for years to come, this could wind up being one of the most pivotal moments in all of NBA history.

Kevin Love Breaks Moses Malone's Record

Kevin Love registered his 52nd consecutive double-double against the Indiana Pacers back in March, effective breaking Moses Malone's post-merger records.

Over the course of his streak, Love established himself as not only one of the premier rebounders in the league, but also one of the most capable scorers. 

He finished his streak with 53 consecutive double-doubles, in a nearly season-long performance that was one for the ages.

Dennis Rodman Inducted into the Hall of Fame

Dennis Rodman headlined the 2011 NBA Hall of Fame inductee class this past August, showing a side of himself that most were not used to seeing.

Sporting some of the usual garments from his eccentric wardrobe, Rodman teared up during his acceptance speech. Throughout his career, Rodman was known for his ferocious rebounding, tenacious defense and questionable fashion choices, but never for his sensitivity.

This year's induction class also included Chris Mullin and Artis Gilmore, among others.

Brandon Roy Forced to Retire

One day after the NBA officially reopened its doors, Portland Trail Blazers shooting guard Brandon Roy announced his retirement after a two-year battle with degenerative knees.

At only 27, Roy's retirement was a tragic reminder of how injuries cannot only alter, but end an athlete's career.

Shaquille O'Neal was fortunate enough to leave the game on his own terms. Roy wasn't as lucky.

LeBron James Expressed Remorse

After 18 months of seemingly embracing the role of the NBA's villain, LeBron James expressed remorse for what had transpired, as well as a willingness to change in an interview with ESPN's Rachel Nichols.

Was James being sincere in his pledge to change?

Only time will tell, but regardless of his intentions, the interview remains was of the most important moments of 2011 for the NBA. 

Agreement Reached to End NBA Lockout

A tentative agreement was reached on November 26th to end the NBA lockout, and thus save the season.

After the players dissolved the union, the outlook was not good, and many were preparing for a year without basketball. Christmas came early, however, and the season was saved.

The entire negotiating process was an embarrassment, but the fact that the two sides were able to come together at the end, regardless of what the agreement looked like, is of great importance.

Phil Jackson Retires

With 11 NBA titles to his name, Phil Jackson retired for the third time after the Los Angeles Lakers were swept by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the NBA Playoffs.

Jackson's 11 championship rings are an NBA record and his ability to coach the most elite players of all time remains unmatchable.

Will the 65-year-old Jackson come out of retirement for a third time? 

Anything can happen, but for now, we will sit and wait for the book.

Carmelo Anthony Heads to Broadway

After more than half a season of incessant rumors, Carmelo Anthony officially joined the New York Knicks as the NBA approached the 2011 trade deadline.

Amar'e Stoudemire gave the Knicks hope back in 2010 when he inked a five-year deal to become the franchise's cornerstone, but Anthony's acquisition proved orange and blue was serious about forming a superstar powerhouse.

The Knicks paid a high price for Anthony, but the moment he was pictured in a New York jersey, part of the organization's pipe dream had been fulfilled, shifting the league's balance of power for the foreseeable future. 

Deron Williams to the New Jersey Nets

It was the blockbuster that no one saw coming, as the New Jersey Nets acquired Deron Williams after failing to snag Carmelo Anthony.

Williams did not guarantee that he would sign an extension with the Nets as a result of the deal, but the team's hope was, and remains, that he is the first of multiple superstars to be donning their uniform.

The point guard's presence instantly made the Nets relevant, and also increased the interest surrounding Dwight Howard's impending free-agency, as he and the star center would thrive alongside each other.

Will the risk the Nets took by acquiring Williams pay off?

That's a moment to discuss down the road.

NBA Officially Reopens Doors

The tentative agreement to end the lockout in late November sent the basketball world into a frenzy, but it was nothing compared to the jubilation felt when the NBA officially reopened its doors on December 9th.

On that day, it became a reality that there would be a basketball season. Teams returned to work and player transactions were free to be put through. 

The prospect of not being able to see Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and the rest of the NBA's elite talents was too much to bear. Even after the tentative agreement was reached, the inability of the two parties to agree in weeks past left much to be doubted.

Fortunately, it never got that far. 

Boston Celtics and New York Knicks Kick off NBA Regular Season

The NBA got underway just in time for Christmas, and the season opened with a thriller between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks.

With the opening tip, the 2011-2012 campaign got underway and the lockout became a mishap of the past.

Regardless of whether or not one had any interest in either of these two teams, there was a universal appreciation for what the tip-off of this game stood for.

Derrick Rose Signs New Deal with Chicago Bulls

For those hoping to attempt to pry Derrick Rose away from the Chicago Bulls via restricted free agency next summer, immense disappointment was experienced just before the season's opening tip-off.

Rose agreed to a five-year contract extension worth a reported $94.8 million, ensuring that he would not explore his other options come July.

While Rose's decision to forego the avenue of exploration does not send the same message as Kevin Durant's extension back in 2010, it has shown the capability of a superstar to remain humble. Sure, Chicago is a much more appealing market than Oklahoma City, but testing the waters can always be a temptation, regardless of what team an athlete plays for.

Rose's extension is not only a refreshing exhibition of loyalty, but has also ensured the Bulls will remain amongst the league's top team for years to come.

The next five, to be exact.

Jeff Green Sidelined for Entire Season

To say that Jeff Green's heart condition came as a surprise is a severe understatement.

The Boston Celtics had hoped that Green would reach his full potential and become a refreshing display of youth this season, but instead his contract has been voided as he begins his road back to the NBA.

Green's situation is not only critical for himself and the Celtics, but serves as yet another reminder of how detrimental health can be to one's career.

Green has remained a grateful optimist since his diagnosis, and one cannot help but pull for him to come back on top.

NBA Blocks Chris Paul to Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Hornets had put a deal in place that would have landed All-Star point guard Chris Paul in purple and gold, only to see the league come in and dismantle it.

New Orleans is owned by the NBA, so in theory, the league had every right to put an end to the deal. That being said, it was in the latter stages of negotiations, having been agreed upon in principle and should have been stopped much sooner.

Paul's presence alongside Kobe Bryant would have wreaked havoc for the entire league and put an end to the uncertainty surrounding the Lakers. Instead, the Lakers are left still searching, and the league has made an even worse name for itself.

Tyson Chandler to New York Knicks

The Carmelo Anthony trade helped shift the balance of power within the league, but when Tyson Chandler joined the New York Knicks, his move arguably had a greater influence on the power rankings.

With Chandler, the Knicks formed the most formidable front line in the entire league. While they have struggled to mesh up until now, pairings of this magnitude take time.

Additionally, Chandler's departure left a gaping hole in the middle for the Dallas Mavericks and transformed the defensive culture in New York.

Chandler may not be the same class of athlete as Anthony or LeBron James, but his decision to part ways with Dallas impacted both conferences.

Los Angeles Lakers Trade Lamar Odom to Dallas Mavericks

When it became clear that the Los Angeles Lakers were out of the running for Chris Paul, Lamar Odom was dealt to the Dallas Mavericks.

Odom helped fill the void in Dallas left by Tyson Chandler, but his absence from the Lakers rotation could prove detrimental to the bench's production moving forward.

Bench players do not normally generate too much hype, but Odom is an exception and his presence, or lack thereof, is now being felt by two different teams.

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook Confrontation

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook were thought to have their differences this past postseason, but their recent confrontation in the second quarter of a game against the Memphis Grizzlies had the basketball world buzzing about a potential blow-up waiting to happen.

While any trouble between the Oklahoma City Thunder's two stars is notable because of the potential effect it has on the team, Chris Sheridan of Sheridan Hoops said it best when he noted the confrontation was a direct result of competitive, youthful athletes.

This moment was blown out of proportion, yet it is immensely important because of the speculation that will ensue as a result, and how the team will handle it moving forward.

Chris Bosh Gets Emotional After a Loss to Dallas Mavericks in NBA Finals

Chris Bosh took a lot of flak for expressing his emotions—on more than one occasion, in fact—yet his tearful display serves as a reminder to the effort and dedication the players have to the game.

With the type of money NBA players make, it is nice to see that the game itself actually means more than a paycheck to them. No, not every player is going to cry after a loss, but Bosh's display humanized him and the rest of the Miami Heat.

We can laugh at the Bosh's performance last postseason, but in terms of his devotion, well, that's no laughing matter.

Rajon Rondo Is Dangled in Attempt to Land Chris Paul

When the Boston Celtics dangled Rajon Rondo in an attempt to land Chris Paul, it spoke volumes about the organization's faith, or lack thereof, in their point guard to lead a team without superstars.

Rondo is an elite floor general, but has always had at least one superstar in their prime to dish off to. Currently, he is the only superstar on the Celtics in his prime and Boston clearly is on the fence as to whether he can keep the team relevant.

While Rondo ended 2011 on a tear, the moment he was included in failed trade negotiations, his relationship with the franchise, whether the public is made privy to it or not, changed.

Should anything of a negative nature transpire moving forward, we can look to this moment as the driving force behind it.

Chris Paul to Los Angeles Clippers

The Clippers may not be Los Angeles' team, but their acquisition of Chris Paul certainly brought them out from behind the Lakers shadow.

Blake Griffin made the Clippers exciting, but Paul made them relevant. He gave the team a proven, yet youthful core to build around, thus ensuring the organization would no longer get lost in the shuffle.

Will the Clippers have a stronger year than the Lakers?

Who knows, but the fact that it is even a possibility proves just how important Paul's acquisition was to this season's outcome.

Dallas Mavericks Win NBA Championship

When the clock expired on Game 6 of the 2011 NBA Finals, the Dallas Mavericks were NBA champions.

It was a moment unlike any other as the Mavericks defeated the Miami Heat and their heralded super-team. Dirk Nowitzki and company proved that it doesn't take a plethora of superstar talent to be crowned champions, as their fairy-tale season came at the hands of roster depth.

By reaching the Finals in only their first season together, the Heat showed they were a team to be feared. That being said, the Mavericks proved that Miami wasn't invincible.

At that moment, depth triumphed over stardom.

Dirk Nowitzki Named 2011 NBA Finals MVP

The Dallas Mavericks rode Dirk Nowitzki to an NBA championship, and he was fittingly named the 2011 NBA Finals MVP as a result.

Nowitzki led his team to a title as the sole superstar. Whenever the game was on the line or the team needed a spark, Nowitzki took over. He was the pillar of stability all season long.

Dallas' defeat of the Miami Heat became much more significant when Nowitzki was named the finals MVP. Both Dwyane Wade and LeBron James are hard workers, but in 2011, no player worked harder to prove his worth to his team, and the league, than Dirk Nowitzki.

You can follow Dan Favale on Twitter @Dan_Favale.