Rasheed Wallace recently sparked a debate by suggesting that Michael Jordan was more dangerous during his time with the Washington Wizards than with the Chicago Bulls. Wallace, a former NBA star known for his intense play and candid opinions, offered this perspective in an interview where he highlighted several aspects of Jordan’s game that evolved during his final years in the league.
After retiring for a second time in 1998 following his sixth championship with the Bulls, Jordan made a surprising comeback in 2001 with the Wizards. While many fans and analysts view his Wizards tenure as a less successful chapter of his career, Wallace sees it differently. According to Wallace, Jordan’s experience, basketball IQ, and refined skill set made him an even more formidable opponent, despite his advanced age and diminished athleticism.
Wallace emphasized that during his time with the Wizards, Jordan was no longer relying solely on his physical abilities, such as his explosive first step or his ability to soar above defenders for highlight-reel dunks. Instead, Jordan had adapted his game to compensate for the natural decline in athleticism that comes with age. He became more methodical, using his vast knowledge of the game to outthink and outmaneuver opponents.
Jordan’s post-up game, mid-range shooting, and footwork were particularly lethal during his Wizards years. He could dissect defenses with his impeccable timing and precision, often catching defenders off-guard with his smooth fadeaways and crafty moves in the paint. Wallace noted that playing against this version of Jordan was mentally exhausting because of his ability to exploit even the smallest mistakes.
Moreover, Wallace pointed out that Jordan’s leadership and psychological edge were as sharp as ever. Although the Wizards were not championship contenders, Jordan’s competitive fire and his ability to elevate the play of those around him were still evident. He remained a mentor to younger players and continued to demand excellence from himself and his teammates.
Ultimately, Wallace’s argument is rooted in the idea that Jordan’s mastery of the mental aspects of basketball made him just as dangerous, if not more so, in his final years. While his time with the Wizards did not bring the same level of success as his Bulls years, Jordan’s ability to adapt and remain a top-tier player at the age of 38-40 is a testament to his greatness.
For Wallace, this version of Jordan, armed with experience and a deep understanding of the game, posed a unique challenge—one that transcended mere physical dominance and showcased the full scope of what it means to be an all-time great.
