Ron Harper, a key member of the Chicago Bulls during their second three-peat, recently responded to Isiah Thomas' assertion that the Bulls wouldn't have won a single championship without Jerry Krause. Harper's response added an interesting twist to the conversation, revealing a lesser-known detail about his time with the Bulls.
"He did want to trade me after the '95 season."
Harper shed light on a surprising move that Krause considered during that time. Harper joined the Bulls in 1994, a year after Michael Jordan's first retirement. Initially, Harper's role with the team was limited, as he transitioned from being a prolific scorer with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers to a more defensive-oriented player under head coach Phil Jackson's system.
However, Harper quickly adapted to his new role and became a crucial part of the Bulls' defensive identity during their second three-peat from 1996 to 1998.
In those three championship seasons, Harper's contributions often flew under the radar, overshadowed by the likes of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman. However, his defensive prowess, veteran leadership, and ability to hit key shots made him an invaluable piece of the puzzle. Harper averaged 6.8 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game with the Bulls, and played a crucial role in their second three-peat
After his successful run with the Bulls, Harper continued to find success in the NBA, winning two more championships with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2000 and 2001 under his former coach, Phil Jackson. His role with the Lakers was similar to his time with the Bulls: a veteran leader who provided stability, defense, and timely scoring.
Harper's revelation that Krause considered trading him after the 1995 season adds another layer to the complex legacy of the Bulls' general manager. While Krause's decisions were often controversial, they ultimately led to the creation of one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history.
Harper's response to Isiah Thomas underscores the fine line between success and failure in professional sports and highlights the often-overlooked contributions of players like Harper, who played critical roles in their teams' championship runs.
Both The Players And Jerry Krause Get Enough Blame And Credit For The Dynasty
The Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990s is often celebrated as one of the greatest in sports history, with six NBA championships under the leadership of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and coach Phil Jackson. However, the success and eventual downfall of this dynasty cannot be solely attributed to the players or Jerry Krause, the Bulls' general manager. Both sides deserve equal parts of credit and blame for the dynasty's rise and fall.
On one hand, the players, particularly Jordan, Pippen, and later additions like Dennis Rodman, were the heart and soul of the Bulls' success. Their exceptional talent, work ethic, and chemistry on the court turned Krause's vision into reality. Jordan’s scoring prowess, Pippen’s all-around game, and Rodman’s defensive intensity were unmatched.
However, their eventual discontent with Krause, fueled by contract disputes and public criticisms, also sowed seeds of discord that contributed to the dynasty's dissolution. The players’ refusal to continue under Krause’s management, despite their dominance, played a significant role in the premature end of the Bulls’ reign.
On the other hand, Jerry Krause deserves significant credit for assembling the Bulls' championship teams. He made bold moves, such as trading for Pippen, bringing in Phil Jackson, and acquiring Rodman, all of which were instrumental in building a team that could dominate the league. Krause's ability to recognize and acquire talent was crucial to the Bulls' success.
However, his desire for recognition, his contentious relationships with key players and coaches, and his decision to dismantle the team after the 1998 championship are points of criticism that cannot be ignored. Krause's insistence on rebuilding despite the team’s ongoing success ultimately led to the dynasty's abrupt end.
The Bulls' dynasty was a complex interplay of talent, management, and egos. Both the players and Jerry Krause played pivotal roles in the team’s success and its eventual downfall, deserving both the credit for the championships won and the blame for the dynasty’s premature end.
