Best pure scorer in NBA history. Could score in every way imaginable. Early in his career was more of a get to the basket scorer but developed into a reliable three point shooter. His midrange game and ability to create space for jump shots with a dribble is unmatched. Also developed his post game and could hit turnaround jumpers all day if the matchup was right. Could split double teams. Always a good free throw shooter but never historic. His athleticsm was equally matched with skill creating some incredible shots. There was also the legendary hangtime to boot. Jordan was more of a weaver with the ball in transition he had end to end speed but liked to use change of direction with the ball to score in transition.
Rebounding:
About 75 percent of Jordan's rebounds were on the defensive board which attests to the fact that Jordan was more of an average offensive rebounder than a great one but that was more of a product of style of play than an ability to tear it up on that end as all the tools were there. He was a terrific defensive rebounder and started and finished many fastbreaks off of them. Has insanely large hands that aided him nicely.
Passing/Ballhandling:
Terrific ball handler who could start stop on a dime with the ball and could get to any spot on the floor with the dribble. His aggressiveness caused some turnovers but they were rarely the stupid variety. Became a better passer as the years went buy. Had a great knack for knowing when to get players involved and then taking over. The triangle offense worked well for Jordan and his teammates later in his career also. Jordan used it to create many open jumpers for shooters. His assist numbers were always high. Had good vision but not the true point guard feel to be as great at the point.
Defense:
The craziest thing about Jordan was the fact that he was just about as good defensively as we offensively. Could handle just about any player from the PG to the SF on the ball. Solid lateral quickness and aggressive defensively, he could stop most players one on one. His strength kept players out of the post and of course was very strong in the passing lanes. Good shot blocker for a shooting guard. Had excellent instincts defensively giving him a good feel for where the play was developing. Also getting benefit of the superstar call never hurt either. Took great pride on defense and his ridiculous stamina allowed him to be a stopper most of the game without hurting him offensively much. Teamed with Pippen who was better off the ball than Jordan even made the Bulls duo an all time defensive tandem.
Intangibles:
Leading the Bulls to six titles pretty much shows he is a winner. Ferocious competitor almost to a fault. Could be very hard on teammates but never seemed to lose their respect. Played hard all the time and was just insane in the clutch. Great leader but more by example. Workout warrior who never stopped trying to get better. Despite his ferocity still blended in well in the locker room and could be very encouraging as a teammate also. Despite his great numbers knew how to play without the ball and would do the little things when needed.
Synopsis:
Incredible combination of athleticsm, skill and competiveness. Michael Jordan seems like an old man to some now. Many NBA fans never saw him in his prime. Many are willing to say Kobe has passed him or his nearing his throne. For now Jordan stands safely on top.
