- Michael Jordan had countless battles over 13 postseason runs
- Jordan went an incredible 6-0 in NBA Finals appearances with 6 Finals MVPs
- No player had a decade-long run like Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, left an indelible mark on the NBA during his illustrious career. While his six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls are often celebrated, it’s equally compelling to examine the formidable opponents he faced on his journey to glory. In this exploration, we’ll shine a spotlight on the remarkable All-NBA players who had the daunting task of challenging Jordan in the playoffs.
From legendary rivalries to iconic matchups, these encounters not only shaped Jordan’s legacy but also left an indelible impact on the history of the sport. Join us as we delve into the elite competition that pushed His Airness to reach unparalleled heights in the world of basketball. We have already seen how LeBron James faced an incredible list of All-NBA talent over his career, but let’s take a step further and focus on Jordan. By looking at his first playoff run in the 1984-85 season and ending with the 1997-98 season, let’s look at Michael Jordan’s All-NBA competition every year.
1985 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Bucks vs. Bulls 3-1
All-NBA Players: Sidney Moncrief, Terry Cummings
In the 1985 NBA Playoffs, during his second season in the league, Michael Jordan faced the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round. The Bucks, led by All-NBA players Sidney Moncrief and Terry Cummings, ultimately won the series 3-1. Sidney Moncrief, a renowned defensive specialist, had already earned two NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards and was a four-time All-NBA player at that point. Terry Cummings, a versatile forward, added to the formidable Bucks lineup with a former Rookie of the Year trophy.
Despite the series loss, Jordan’s performance was impressive, averaging 29.3 points per game. This playoff debut laid the foundation for Jordan’s future playoff success, showcasing his ability to excel under postseason pressure and foreshadowing his legendary career as one of the NBA’s greatest playoff performers.
1986 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Celtics vs. Bulls 3-0
All-NBA Players: Larry Bird
In the 1986 NBA Playoffs, the Chicago Bulls found themselves facing the mighty Boston Celtics in the first round. The Celtics, led by the iconic Larry Bird, swept the series 3-0. Larry Bird, a true legend of the game, was an All-NBA player, and his remarkable skills on the court were a force to be reckoned with. Bird’s scoring, passing, and basketball IQ made him a formidable opponent.
While the series ended in a sweep for the Celtics, it provided Michael Jordan with valuable experience against an All-NBA player of Bird’s caliber. Bird posted 28.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game while the Bulls guard averaged 43.7 points per game and had a Game 2 whereby Bird called him a blasphemous name.
Jordan’s iconic 63-point performance remains the highest-scoring playoff game by a player to date. This playoff series marked another step in Jordan’s journey toward becoming the all-time great he is remembered as today.
1987 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Celtics vs. Bulls 3-0
All-NBA Players: Larry Bird, Kevin McHale
In the 1987 NBA Playoffs, the Chicago Bulls were once again pitted against the formidable Boston Celtics in the first round. The Celtics, led by All-NBA players Larry Bird and Kevin McHale, secured a 3-0 series victory. Larry Bird, renowned for his scoring and playmaking abilities, had a stellar series, averaging 26.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game. Meanwhile, Kevin McHale, known for his scoring and post-up moves, contributed with 20.5 points and 8.0 rebounds per game.
Although the series ended in a sweep for the Celtics, it showcased the dominance of Bird and McHale, providing Michael Jordan with an up-close look at the level of excellence he aspired to reach even if he posted 35.7 points per game. This playoff matchup further fueled Jordan’s determination to elevate his game because losing to the likes of the Boston Celtics again proved it was not his time to overcome his obstacles just yet.
1988 NBA Playoffs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AQuOvE7iZQ
First Round: Bulls vs. Cavaliers 3-2
All-NBA Players: N/A
In the 1988 NBA Playoffs, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls had a challenging postseason run. In the first round, they faced the Cleveland Cavaliers, where no All-NBA players were on either side. The series went the distance, with the Bulls prevailing 3-2. During this series, Jordan put up remarkable stats, averaging 45.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, underlining his scoring prowess and the enormous impact he had on his team’s success.
Second Round: Pistons vs. Bulls 4-1
All-NBA Players: N/A
Moving on to the second round, the Bulls encountered the “Bad Boy” Detroit Pistons, once again without any All-NBA players involved but had enforcers Isiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, and Bill Laimbeer. However, the Pistons proved to be a formidable opponent, and they took the series 4-1. Jordan continued to shine, averaging 27.4 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game during this round. While the Bulls couldn’t advance to the next stage, losing to the Pistons who beat down Jordan was a key moment in NBA history.
1989 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Bulls vs. Cavaliers 3-2
All-NBA Players: Mark Price
In the 1989 NBA Playoffs, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls faced a series of challenging matchups. In the first round, they went up against the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by All-NBA player Mark Price. The Bulls narrowly advanced with a 3-2 series win. Jordan, as usual, was instrumental in this success, averaging 39.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game, showcasing his all-around brilliance.
Second Round: Bulls vs. Knicks 4-2
All-NBA Players: Patrick Ewing
The second round saw the Bulls taking on the New York Knicks, with All-NBA player Patrick Ewing leading the way. The Bulls managed to secure the series 4-2, as Jordan continued to shine with 35.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game. His individual brilliance and leadership were on full display throughout the series because the Knicks were no pushovers and they had their own championship aspirations.
Eastern Conference Finals: Pistons vs Bulls 4-2
All-NBA Players: N/A
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Bulls faced their familiar foes, the Detroit Pistons, without any All-NBA players in the mix. Despite the absence of such players, the Pistons proved to be a formidable challenge, ending the Bulls’ playoff run with a 4-2 series victory. Throughout this series, Jordan maintained his exceptional performance, averaging 29.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game, highlighting his versatility and determination.
While the Bulls fell short of reaching the NBA Finals, Jordan’s remarkable playoff stats and his ability to perform at an elite level against top competition were undeniable, setting the stage for his future playoff achievements. Michael knew he needed to somehow get past the Bad Boy Pistons to one day become a champion in the NBA.
1990 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Bulls vs. Bucks 3-1
All-NBA Players: N/A
In the 1990 NBA Playoffs, the Chicago Bulls navigated their way through a challenging postseason path. In the first round, they faced the Milwaukee Bucks, where no All-NBA players were in the mix. The Bulls secured the series 3-1, and Michael Jordan was the driving force behind a dominant first-round, averaging 36.8 points per game. The duo of Alvin Robertson and Ricky Pierce still proved a challenge to the Bulls but it was not enough in the end.
Second Round: Bulls vs. 76ers 4-1
All-NBA Players: Charles Barkley
The second round brought the Bulls up against the Philadelphia 76ers, led by All-NBA player Charles Barkley. The Bulls took the series with a 4-1 victory, as Jordan showcased his brilliance with averages of 43.0 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game, further solidifying his status as a postseason force to be reckoned with. Barkley tried to go toe-to-toe, averaging 23.8 points and 17.0 rebounds per game in the series, but it was not enough.
Eastern Conference Finals: Pistons vs. Bulls 4-3
All-NBA Players: Joe Dumars
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Bulls faced their perennial rivals, the Detroit Pistons, with Joe Dumars being the sole All-NBA player in the mix. The series was fiercely contested, with the Bulls ultimately prevailing 4-3. Jordan delivered a legendary performance, averaging 32.1 points per game. Once again, the Pistons did not allow Jordan to progress as the team would win their second title in two years. Amazingly, history would repeat itself a year later.
1991 NBA Playoffs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5QFA8hCubA
First Round: Bulls vs. Knicks 3-0
All-NBA Players: Patrick Ewing
The 1991 NBA Playoffs were a defining moment in Michael Jordan’s illustrious career, as he led the Chicago Bulls to their first NBA championship. In the first round, the Bulls faced the New York Knicks, with All-NBA player Patrick Ewing leading the way. The Bulls swiftly advanced with a 3-0 series victory, and Jordan’s exceptional stats told the story – he averaged 29.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, showcasing his scoring and playmaking abilities. Ewing chipped in 16.7 points and 10.0 rebounds per game in the loss.
Second Round: Bulls vs. 76ers 4-1
All-NBA Players: Charles Barkley
The second round saw the Bulls taking on the Philadelphia 76ers, led by All-NBA player Charles Barkley. The Bulls secured the series with a 4-1 victory, with Jordan again putting up impressive numbers – he averaged 33.4 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game while Barkley posted 25.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. Once again, Barkley could not quite usurp Jordan as an individual player although they would meet in the Finals soon enough.
Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Pistons 4-0
All-NBA Players: Joe Dumars
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Bulls faced their long-time rivals, the Detroit Pistons, with All-NBA player Joe Dumars on the opposing side. The Bulls swept the Pistons 4-0, and Jordan’s stats were nothing short of spectacular, as he averaged 29.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game, underscoring his leadership and determination to make his first Finals appearance. Finally, Jordan got over the hump set by the Pistons and it ended in the ugliest way possible with Detroit players walking out without shaking hands.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AbIkcballk
NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Lakers 4-1
All-NBA Players: Magic Johnson, James Worthy
In the NBA Finals, the Bulls met the Los Angeles Lakers, boasting All-NBA players Magic Johnson and James Worthy. The Bulls secured their first championship with a 4-1 series win. Jordan’s stats in this series were MVP-worthy, averaging 31.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per game, underscoring his scoring and playmaking abilities.
Magic Johnson did his best, averaging 18.6 points and 12.4 assists per game, but Jordan’s time to be the undisputed king of the league was now. The 1991 playoffs marked a historic moment in Jordan’s career as he secured his first NBA championship, defeating numerous All-NBA talents along the way. His outstanding statistics and leadership in these matchups exemplified his greatness and set the stage for a dynasty in Chicago.
1992 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Bulls vs. Heat 3-0
All-NBA Players: N/A
The 1992 NBA Playoffs marked another significant chapter in the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty led by Michael Jordan. In the first round, the Bulls faced the Miami Heat, with no All-NBA players in the mix. The Bulls swiftly advanced with a 3-0 series win, setting the stage for their playoff journey because Miami still had talented players including Rony Seikaly and Glen Rice.
Second Round: Bulls vs. Knicks 4-3
All-NBA Players: Patrick Ewing
The second round featured a grueling seven-game series against the New York Knicks, led by All-NBA player Patrick Ewing. This series was marked by key moments and fierce competition. Jordan’s incredible stats once again told the story, as he averaged 31.3 points per game including an exceptional series-clinching 42-point performance in Game 7.
Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Cavaliers 4-2
All-NBA Players: Mark Price, Brad Daugherty
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Bulls faced the Cleveland Cavaliers, featuring All-NBA players Mark Price and Brad Daugherty. This series had its share of memorable moments since the Cavaliers were considered one of the best teams in the league. The Bulls secured the series 4-2 despite Price averaging 18.5 points per game and Daugherty averaging 17.7 points per game against the defensive-minded Bulls.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hynjpv8y1pA
NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Trail Blazers 4-2
All-NBA Players: Clyde Drexler
The NBA Finals saw the Bulls taking on the Portland Trail Blazers, featuring All-NBA player Clyde Drexler. This series included an iconic Jordan moment, known as “The Shrug,” where he outperformed Drexler and the Blazers to win the championship by draining six three-pointers in a single half of Game 1. The Bulls secured their second consecutive title with a 4-2 series win, and Jordan’s stats were a testament to his greatness, as he averaged 35.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game.
The 1992 playoffs showcased not only Jordan’s incredible statistics but also his ability to deliver in clutch moments and lead the Bulls to their second consecutive NBA championship, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in basketball history. It also proved that Michael was the best player in the world and not even Clyde Drexler could challenge that title.
1993 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Bulls vs. Hawks 3-0
All-NBA Players: Dominique Wilkins
The 1993 NBA Playoffs marked yet another incredible postseason journey for the Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan. In the first round, they faced the Atlanta Hawks, led by All-NBA player Dominique Wilkins. The Bulls advanced with a 3-0 series win, with Jordan putting up impressive stats, averaging 45.0 points per game against Dominique Wilkins’ averages of 30.0 points per game in one of the most exciting offensive showdowns in recent memory.
Second Round: Bulls vs. Cavaliers 4-0
All-NBA Players: Mark Price
The second round brought the Bulls against the Cleveland Cavaliers, featuring All-NBA player Mark Price. The Bulls, led by Jordan, swept the Cavaliers with a 4-0 series win. Jordan continued to shine, averaging 31.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, displaying his well-rounded game against a solid team led by Price (13.5 points, 5.8 assists per game). The Bulls were simply too talented and another Eastern Conference Finals showdown would commence.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b689My8YJZQ
Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Knicks 4-2
All-NBA Players: Patrick Ewing
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Bulls faced the New York Knicks, with All-NBA player Patrick Ewing leading the way. This series was marked by fierce competition and key moments, including Jordan’s clutch performances in Game 5 which gave the Bulls a 3-2 lead after falling into a 2-0 hole. The Bulls secured the series 4-2, and Jordan’s stats remained impressive, averaging 32.2 points per game.
NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Suns 4-2
All-NBA Players: Charles Barkley
In the NBA Finals, the Bulls met the Phoenix Suns, featuring All-NBA player Charles Barkley. This series was a showcase of two basketball titans, and the Bulls secured their third consecutive title with a 4-2 series win. Jordan’s stats were MVP-caliber, as he averaged 41.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
Despite Barkley averaging 27.3 points and 13.0 rebounds per game, Jordan was just too good. The 1993 playoffs were a testament to Jordan’s unparalleled skills and his ability to perform at an elite level against All-NBA competition, ultimately leading the Bulls to their third consecutive NBA championship and completing their first three-peat.
1995 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Bulls vs. Hornets 3-1
All-NBA Players: N/A
Michael Jordan barely had enough reps in the regular season, 17 games to be exact, before he was thrust into another playoff run following his retirement. In the first round, the Bulls had to take on the Charlotte Hornets led by Alonzo Mourning and Larry Johnson. Jordan managed to average 32.3 points per game against Mourning’s 22.0 points per game, and while his numbers were impressive, something was not quite right as we weren’t seeing a full-force Mike just yet.
Second Round: Magic vs. Bulls 4-2
All-NBA Players: Penny Hardaway, Shaquille O’Neal
The second round against the Orlando Magic was highly competitive but Jordan needed more time to get into his rhythm in the season before going for another championship. The Bulls took Game 2 and Game 4 to even the series but were unable to get over the hump in the final two games.
Penny Hardaway made the All-NBA First Team and Shaquille O’Neal made the All-NBA Second Team, and the duo was spectacular against the Bulls. Michael posted 31.0 points per game but Penny (18.5 points) and Shaq (24.3 points) were simply too much at that point.
1996 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Bulls vs. Heat 3-0
All-NBA Players: N/A
The 1996 NBA Playoffs marked the Chicago Bulls’ return to dominance under the leadership of Michael Jordan. Michael managed to play 82 games and get his reps in, meaning the Bulls were ready to contend again. In the first round, they faced the Miami Heat, without any All-NBA players. The Bulls advanced with a 3-0 series win, setting the stage for their long playoff journey.
Second Round: Bulls vs. Knicks 4-1
All-NBA Players: N/A
The second round saw the Bulls taking on the New York Knicks, again without any All-NBA players in the mix. The Bulls secured the series with a 4-1 victory, and Jordan continued to shine as he averaged 31.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Ewing was the star of the show for the Knicks, averaging 23.4 points and 11.2 rebounds per game.
Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Magic 4-0
All-NBA Players: Penny Hardaway, Shaquille O’Neal
In the Eastern Conference Finals, the Bulls faced the Orlando Magic, featuring All-NBA players Penny Hardaway and Shaquille O’Neal. The Magic proved to be the demise of the Bulls in the prior season but they weren’t ready to take on Jordan and the Bulls just yet. O’Neal averaged an impressive 27.0 points per game, but Jordan’s average of 29.5 points per game proved to be too much.
NBA Finals: Bulls vs. SuperSonics 4-2
All-NBA Players: Gary Payton, Shawn Kemp
In the NBA Finals, the Bulls met the Seattle SuperSonics, boasting All-NBA players Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp. The Bulls ran past the SuperSonics for a 3-0 lead, but the opposition bounced back in Game 4 and Game 5 before falling in Game 6. The Bulls won the series 4-2, and Jordan’s stats remained remarkable, averaging 27.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game as he won his fourth Finals MVP.
Payton posted 18.0 points and 7.0 assists per game and Kemp added 23.3 points per game. The 1996 playoffs were a testament to Jordan’s leadership and his ability to rise to the occasion in key moments, leading the Bulls to their fourth NBA championship. This season further cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in basketball history.
1997 NBA Playoffs
First Round: Bulls vs. Bullets 3-0
All-NBA Players: N/A
The 1997 NBA Playoffs saw the Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan, continue their quest for NBA glory. In the first round, they faced the Washington Bullets without any All-NBA players. The Bulls advanced with a 3-0 series win, setting the stage for their postseason journey as Rod Strickland’s 19.7 points per game was not enough.
Second Round: Bulls vs. Hawks 4-1
All-NBA Players: N/A
In the second round, the Bulls took on the Atlanta Hawks, once again without any All-NBA players in the mix. The Bulls secured the series with a 4-1 victory. Key moments in this round included Jordan’s dominant performances and leadership, as he averaged 26.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game in a five-game “gentleman’s sweep” against Mookie Blaylock (20.6 points).
Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Heat 4-1
All-NBA Players: Tim Hardaway
The Eastern Conference Finals featured the Bulls against the Miami Heat, with Tim Hardaway as the lone All-NBA player. The Bulls took the series with a 4-1 victory, with Jordan showcasing his scoring prowess. Tim Hardaway was the only All-NBA player on the Heat during the year, averaging 17.2 points and 5.6 assists per game. Clearly, Jordan’s 30.2 points per game was simply too much to overcome.
NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Jazz 4-2
All-NBA Players: Karl Malone, John Stockton
In the NBA Finals, the Bulls faced the Utah Jazz, featuring All-NBA players Karl Malone and John Stockton. A key moment in this series was Jordan’s “Flu Game” in Game 5, where he scored 38 points while battling illness. The Bulls won the series 4-2, and Jordan’s stats remained stellar, averaging 32.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game against Malone’s averages of 23.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game.
The 1997 playoffs were another chapter in Jordan’s storied career, highlighting his ability to perform in clutch moments and lead the Bulls to their fifth NBA championship. This season further solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
1998 NBA Playoffs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OefFMchN-lk
First Round: Bulls vs. Nets 3-0
All-NBA Players: N/A
The 1998 NBA Playoffs marked the final chapter of the Chicago Bulls’ dynasty under Michael Jordan’s leadership, known as the “Last Dance”. In the first round, they faced the New Jersey Nets, without an All-NBA member on the team. The Bulls advanced with a 3-0 series win. The major challenge in the round for the Bulls was Sherman Douglas who posted 18.3 points per game on 52.3% from the field.
Second Round: Bulls vs. Hornets 4-1
All-NBA Players: Glen Rice
In the second round, the Bulls took on the Charlotte Hornets, featuring Glen Rice as the All-NBA player. The Bulls secured the series with a 4-1 victory, with Jordan’s leadership and scoring prowess on full display, as he averaged 29.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game against Rice (22.6 points per game on 44.1% shooting from the floor). We were treated to an epic showdown with the Indiana Pacers in the following round.
Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Pacers 4-3
All-NBA Players: Reggie Miller
The Eastern Conference Finals pitted the Bulls against the Indiana Pacers, led by All-NBA player Reggie Miller. The series went to a decisive Game 7, with key moments including Jordan’s clutch performances, most notably his 28-point performance in Game 7 to secure the series. Jordan’s statistics were impressive in the series, averaging 31.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game during this round while Miller chipped in 17.4 points per game on 43.6% from three.
NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Jazz 4-2
All-NBA Players: Karl Malone
In the NBA Finals, the Bulls faced the Utah Jazz, featuring All-NBA player Karl Malone. Key moments in this series included Jordan’s iconic “push-off” shot in Game 6 to clinch the Bulls’ sixth championship. The Bulls won the series 4-2, and Jordan’s stats remained remarkable, as he averaged 33.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.
The 1998 playoffs were a fitting conclusion to Jordan’s remarkable career, marked by clutch moments, leadership, and exceptional statistics. It culminated in the Bulls’ sixth NBA championship and solidified Jordan’s legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Michael Jordan Had To Go Through All-Time Great Players To Win In The Playoffs
Michael Jordan’s path in his postseason career was never easy, especially early on. He had to deal with a top-10 player of all time in Larry Bird as the Boston Celtics eliminated him twice in his first three playoff appearances. Even if Jordan ended up becoming “God disguised as Michael Jordan” during the 1987 series against the Celtics, he was not ready to deal with superteams on his own.
Of course, the Bad Boy Pistons dealt with Jordan and the Bulls between 1988 and 1990, beating down the superstar shooting guard every time. The so-called “Jordan Rules” made sure that the shooting guard was never allowed to fly in the air and preventing him easy access to the rim was not going to happen.
Having to deal with Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, Isiah Thomas, and Joe Dumars early on in a career is never a good thing because you will lose. That is what Jordan had to go through early on, and once he had a squad around him starting in 1991, the path wasn’t any easier. Michael needed Scottie Pippen, make no mistake about that.
Once Pippen reached that All-Star level, the Bulls had to handle Magic Johnson and the Lakers in the 1991 Finals before handling Clyde Drexler and Charles Barkley in 1992 and 1993. During those Finals runs, the Bulls also had to handle the likes of Patrick Ewing, Charles Barkley, and Mark Price.
Even when Jordan returned from retirement, having Shaquille O’Neal and Penny Hardaway in their primes was not a welcomed sight. Kickstarting his second three-peat, Jordan dealt with the superstar Orlando Magic duo, Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp in 1996. In 1997 and 1998, it was the likes of Karl Malone, John Stockton, and Reggie Miller at the forefront of the opposition.
Handling Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and Shaquille O’Neal in the playoffs means Michael dealt with three of the 10 greatest players ever while Isiah Thomas, Karl Malone, Reggie Miller, Gary Payton, Clyde Drexler, and Kevin McHale are all first-ballot Hall of Famers. Michael had to defeat the top elite in NBA history to overcome obstacles and win championships, which is yet another reason why he is by far the best player to have ever lived.
