The tense relationship between former Chicago Bulls general manager Jerry Krause and NBA legend Michael Jordan came into focus during a Jan. 12 game at the United Center The Bulls’ first Ring of Honor ceremony was met with harsh boos.
Many Bulls fans of that era know that Krause and Jordan didn’t have the best relationship. But when the documentary “The Last Dance” was released, basketball fans saw the animosity between the two.
However, even before the 2020 documentary aired, some details that led to the breakdown of their relationship were revealed in the New York Times bestseller fight to keep
By David Halberstam, 1999.•
An excerpt from the book was recently posted on Reddit, recalling a mistake Krause made.
#advanceampads0# #advanceampads1#Halberstam believes this announcement will be a major turning point in the relationship between Krause and Jordan.
#advanceampads2#Unfortunately, their relationship has deteriorated beyond repair. As a result, fans continue to blame Krause for destroying the dynasty he helped build.
Also read: ‘Michael Jordan was a jerk’: NBA fans target six-time NBA champion’s ‘Last Dance’ as Jerry Krause boos
What Jerry Krause said in unpublished memoir about benching Michael Jordan
Due to a foot injury, Michael Jordan played only 18 games in the 1985-86 season. According to Jerry Krause, the decision to restrict Jordan that year was made after a doctor examined him.
However, Jordan’s competitive nature wouldn’t allow him to accept this, and he tried to convince Krause to let him play. Krause, however, had made up his mind that he was doing what was best for the team and stood by his decision to keep Jordan on the bench.
He conveyed this message by telling MJ that he was a player, not a doctor. Jordan reportedly interpreted this as his general manager telling him he was just an employee and the team would make decisions for him.
This interaction early in his career defined Jordan’s strained relationship with Krause. The fact that the Chicago Bulls went on to win six championships and are considered one of the greatest teams in NBA history couldn’t save their relationship.
That came to a painful end in 1998, when Michael Jordan led the Bulls to their second three-peat.
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