NBA Playoffs: Ranking the 5 mentally and physically toughest teams of all-time
By Robby Sabo
3. Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls
Talent? Check. Coaching? Check. The sheer will to rip your heart out right there on that court and stomp on it? No question about it.
With Michael Jordan leading the way, the 1990s Chicago Bulls will forever be remembered as one of the tougher teams in NBA Playoffs history.
Although, when tough teams are remembered, sometimes the Bulls get left in the dark. It makes sense. After all, they were led by No. 23, arguably the greatest player of all time.
Chicago also possessed Scottie Pippen and Phil Jackson. Their talent was always on full display.
However, let’s think for a moment about the Bulls’ two squads (each three-peat).
Never did this team go seven games during the NBA Finals. That alone is worthy of the “tough discussion.”
Furthermore, Jordan’s level of competition has always been mentioned as the reason most believe he is head and shoulders above the other greats we’ve seen. The gambling rumors, flipping out on teammates in practice, and even taking rookies money on flights during what was supposed to be a friendly game of poker have all been well-chronicled.
MJ never met a pressure shot that he didn’t like. It was this attitude that sprinkled down to guys like John Paxson, B.J. Armstrong, and even Pippen.
Let’s also not forget how physical the NBA Playoffs would become during their era. This was something other teams like the Pacers and Knicks thrived upon. The Bulls had to overcome this, which led to great Eastern Conference rivalries.
Jordan and company had to be tough enough to overcome the physical dominance other teams challenged them with. And oh yeah, let’s not forget the brutal nature of the late ’80s Detroit Pistons. Having to battle through those champions was something only a physically and mentally tough squad could deal with.
Even when Jordan was gone, their tough mentality stuck with them:
When looking at the center position, guys like Bill Cartwright, Luc Longley, Bill Wennington and Will Perdue will never be confused with Charles Oakley or Dale Davis.
At the same time, Horace Grant and Dennis Rodman down on the blocks brought that physical nature to the starting lineup:
Next: Number 2