Sports Illustrated | February 1987 Feature
The Chicago Bulls entered the 1986–87 NBA season with high hopes — a young superstar in Michael Jordan, a promising backcourt partner in Dexter Towns, and a city hungry for playoff relevance. Instead, through midseason, the Bulls find themselves in disarray, sitting near the bottom of the Eastern Conference and looking nothing like a team on the rise.
Michael Jordan’s Mounting Frustration
For Michael Jordan, the 23-year-old face of the franchise, this season has been nothing short of exasperating. After battling injuries during the 1985–86 campaign, Jordan entered this season determined to dominate. Yet, with inconsistent offensive schemes and chemistry issues clouding Chicago’s rhythm, his averages have dipped to 16 points per game, well below his expectations — and everyone else’s.
That Houston game, a 121–88 blowout at the Summit, showcased exactly what Jordan meant. Akeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson dominated the interior, while the Bulls looked disconnected and disorganized.
Dexter Towns and Locker Room Tension
What’s made matters worse is the internal friction between Jordan and fellow guard Dexter Towns. Towns, coming off a stellar rookie campaign where he averaged over 24 points per game, has struggled to adjust to a more team-oriented system. Coaches have noted that both players often “fight for the same floor space” and ball control.
According to team insiders, Jordan has grown increasingly vocal about leadership and direction, while Towns remains focused on proving he’s more than a one-year wonder. The two reportedly had a heated exchange following a January loss to the Pacers.
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