Nick Van Exel’s best NBA season was probably 1997-98 with the Lakers, when he was part of a 61-21 team that posted Los Angeles’ best regular season since Magic Johnson retired. That season stands out most for his overall impact on a strong contender.

Why that season stands out

  • He was a key guard on a high-level Lakers team that won 61 games.
  • The season is often the one people point to when discussing his peak NBA value because it came during a winning team context.
  • If you mean his favorite season personally, he has also said Cincinnati’s 1992 Final Four run was the best year of his basketball life.

Best season vs favorite season

Angle| Season| Why it matters
---|---|---
Best NBA season| 1997-98 Lakers| His most notable team success at the pro level
Favorite basketball year| 1992 Cincinnati| He called it the best year of his basketball life

Bottom line

For pure basketball performance and team success, 1997-98 is the strongest answer. For personal meaning, 1992 at Cincinnati is the one Van Exel himself highlighted.