1987 Michael Jordan represents a pivotal season in NBA history, bridging his breakout rookie year and his full emergence as a dominant championship force. During this campaign, Jordan refined his scoring instincts, expanded his playmaking vision, and set the foundation for what would become legendary status.
The year showcased his relentless competitiveness and the evolving role of the Chicago Bulls within the Eastern Conference. It was a time of significant individual growth and team development, setting the stage for future playoff runs and cementing Jordan's status as the league's premier offensive threat.
1987 Season Performance Overview
Regular Season Highlights
In the 1986-87 season, Michael Jordan delivered consistent brilliance and began to define his role as a primary option. He elevated his scoring average and demonstrated advanced moves on both ends of the floor, drawing attention from defenses throughout the league.
| Category | 1986-87 Regular Season | League Rank | Team Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 37.1 | 1st in NBA | 40-42 (5th in Eastern Conference) |
| Assists Per Game | 2.9 | Top 10 among wings | Playoff berth secured |
| Games Started | 82 | Full season load | Key injuries to teammates |
| All-Star Selection | Starter, Game MVP | League recognition | Leading Bulls franchise scoring |
Playing Style Evolution and Offensive Growth
Advanced Scoring Techniques
During 1987, Michael Jordan expanded his offensive toolkit, relying less heavily on pure athleticism and more on craft. He developed a signature combination of the up-and-under move, hesitation drives, and mid-range fadeaways that became staples of his scoring repertoire.
His increased usage as the primary option meant taking on bigger defenders in isolation, and he responded with heightened efficiency in high-pressure moments. This season highlighted his ability to create contact and finish through traffic, establishing him as an extremely difficult one-on-one defender.
Defensive Impact and Two-Way Contribution
On-Ball Pressure and Perimeter Defense
While primarily celebrated for his offense, 1987 Michael Jordan was a disruptive defensive force. He took on the league's top shooting guards and frequently guarded the opponent's best perimeter scorer, using length, anticipation, and activity to generate steals.
His defensive improvements complemented the Bulls' team structure, helping to limit opponents in transition and providing a spark on the break with his outlet passes and transition vision. This two-way impact increased his overall value beyond traditional scoring metrics.
Team Context and Playoff Implications
Bulls Roster Dynamics
The Bulls surrounding cast shaped how Jordan's game developed during this period. Key contributors like Horace Grant, John Paxson, and Artis Gilmore played critical roles in spacing the floor and creating opportunities for Jordan to attack gaps in the defense. The coaching staff emphasized ball movement while trusting Jordan with the final shot.
Entering the playoffs, the team carried momentum from a strong finish. Jordan's ability to elevate his performance when it mattered most became evident, as he routinely delivered in high-stakes situations and began to build a reputation for clutch execution.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Focus on mastering a diverse offensive skill set beyond basic drives.
- Develop defensive awareness to create steals and transition opportunities.
- Use film study to analyze matchups against larger defenders.
- Balance high-usage scoring with smart decision-making to limit turnovers.
- Build team chemistry to create advantages in isolation situations.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Jordan's scoring average in 1986-87 compare to other players in the league?
Michael Jordan led the entire NBA in scoring during the 1986-87 season with a 37.1 points per game average, establishing a new benchmark for offensive production among guards and wings.
Did Jordan change his approach to scoring against taller defenders that year?
Yes, he refined his mid-range game and developed more varied finishing moves, allowing him to score efficiently over taller defenders while minimizing contested layups.
What role did turnovers play in his overall performance during the season?
Jordan maintained a favorable turnover-to-assist ratio while carrying a heavy scoring load, demonstrating improved decision-making as he took on more offensive responsibilities.
How did this season influence his long-term career trajectory and marketability?
The 1987 campaign solidified Jordan as the league's marquee talent, paving the way for endorsement growth and establishing a legacy of on-court excellence that would define the Bulls' franchise for decades.