Michael Jordan's Playoff Record Against Every NBA Team

Michael Jordan, often revered as the greatest basketball player of all time, left an indelible mark on the NBA playoffs with his awe-inspiring performances and clutch moments. From his first postseason appearance to his last, Jordan's playoff career was a series of memorable battles against various teams, showcasing his unparalleled skill, tenacity, and ability to elevate his game when it mattered most.

This comprehensive look at Jordan's playoff record against each NBA team he faced highlights the challenges he overcame and the triumphs he engineered on basketball’s biggest stage.

Michael Jordan vs. Atlanta Hawks - 7-1 (2-0 in series)

1993 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Hawks 3-0

1997 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. Hawks 4-1

In the 1993 Eastern Conference First Round, Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to a decisive 3-0 sweep over the Atlanta Hawks. Throughout the series, Jordan was a dominant force, averaging 34.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. His performance included a game where he scored 39 points to secure the sweep. The Bulls would go on to win the NBA Championship that year, with Jordan playing a pivotal role throughout their playoff run.

In the 1997 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Jordan faced the Hawks again and showcased his relentless competitiveness and skill. Despite a setback in Game 2, Jordan helped the Bulls to secure the series 4-1. He averaged 28.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists during this series. The Bulls' victory over the Hawks propelled them into the Eastern Conference Finals and eventually led them to another NBA Championship, further cementing Jordan's legacy as a playoff performer.

Michael Jordan vs. Boston Celtics - 0-6 (0-2 in series)

1986 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Celtics 0-3

1987 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Celtics 0-3

In the 1986 Eastern Conference First Round, Michael Jordan, despite being only in his second NBA season, made a memorable mark by scoring an incredible 63 points in Game 2 against the Boston Celtics. However, the Celtics, one of the strongest teams in NBA history, swept the Bulls 3-0. This series displayed Jordan's brilliance overshadowed by the superior team play of the Celtics, who went on to win the NBA Championship that year.

The 1987 playoffs saw a rematch between Jordan’s Bulls and the Celtics in the first round. Again, the Celtics proved too strong, sweeping the series 3-0. Jordan showcased his scoring prowess, including a 42-point performance in Game 2, but the Bulls were unable to overcome the depth and cohesion of the Celtics' lineup. These early playoff exits served as critical learning experiences for Jordan, who would later lead the Bulls to six NBA Championships in the 1990s.

Michael Jordan vs. New Jersey Nets - 3-0 (1-0 in series)

1998 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Nets 3-0

In the 1998 Eastern Conference First Round, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls faced off against the New Jersey Nets, achieving a clean sweep in the series. Jordan was instrumental in securing the 3-0 victory, showcasing his veteran poise and clutch performance as the Bulls pursued their sixth NBA Championship.

Jordan's performance throughout the series underscored his ability to dominate crucial playoff moments. He averaged 36.3 points per game, highlighted by scoring 39 points in the series opener and 38 points in the deciding Game 3. This series was particularly significant as it was part of Jordan's final championship run with the Bulls, culminating in the iconic 1998 NBA Championship, often referred to as "The Last Dance" for this legendary Bulls team.

Michael Jordan vs. Charlotte Hornets - 7-2 (2-0 in series)

1995 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Hornets 3-1

1998 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. Hornets 4-1

In the 1995 Eastern Conference First Round, Michael Jordan, recently returned from his first retirement, led the Chicago Bulls to a series victory over the Charlotte Hornets. The Bulls won the series 3-1, with Jordan quickly reasserting himself as a dominant force in the NBA. He averaged 32.3 points per game in the series, signaling that he was back in full form.

The 1998 Eastern Conference Semifinals saw Jordan and the Bulls face the Hornets again. This time, the Bulls were even more dominant, winning the series 4-1. Jordan's leadership and skill were on full display as he averaged 30.6 points per game. The victory was a crucial step in the Bulls' journey to their sixth NBA Championship during Jordan's tenure with the team, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest playoff performers in basketball history.

Michael Jordan vs. Cleveland Cavaliers - 14-6 (4-0 in series)

1988 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Cavaliers 3-2

1989 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Cavaliers 3-2

1992 Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Cavaliers 4-2

1993 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. Cavaliers 4-0

Michael Jordan's matchups with the Cleveland Cavaliers are some of the most memorable in NBA playoff history. Jordan's Bulls faced the Cavaliers in four different playoff series, winning all four and compiling a record of 14-6 against them. In the 1988 Eastern Conference First Round, Jordan began his playoff dominance over the Cavaliers, helping the Bulls to a narrow 3-2 series win. Jordan's scoring ability was a key factor, with significant performances in each game.

The 1989 series is particularly famous for "The Shot," Jordan's game-winning basket over Craig Ehlo in Game 5, clinching the series for the Bulls 3-2. This moment is one of the most iconic in NBA history and highlighted Jordan's clutch performance under pressure. The 1992 Eastern Conference Finals saw the Bulls face the Cavaliers again, with Chicago winning 4-2. Jordan was phenomenal, averaging 31.2 points per game, demonstrating his ability to elevate his game during the critical moments of the playoffs.

In 1993, Jordan led the Bulls to a convincing 4-0 sweep in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, showcasing his unmatched playoff intensity and effectiveness. This series victory was part of the Bulls' path to their third consecutive NBA Championship.

Michael Jordan vs. Detroit Pistons - 10-12 (1-3 in series)

1988 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. Pistons 1-4

1989 Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Pistons 2-4

1990 Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Pistons 3-4

1991 Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Pistons 4-0

Michael Jordan's battles with the Detroit Pistons, known as the "Bad Boys" of the NBA, were some of the most challenging and defining moments of his early career. The Bulls faced the Pistons in four consecutive playoff series from 1988 to 1991, initially struggling but ultimately overcoming this fierce rivalry.

In 1988, the Bulls met the Pistons in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, where they lost 1-4. This series was a tough lesson for Jordan and the Bulls, who faced a physical style of play that tested their resolve. The rivalry intensified in the 1989 Eastern Conference Finals, where the Bulls again faced the Pistons and lost 2-4. Despite Jordan's impressive performances, the Pistons' defensive tactics, famously known as "The Jordan Rules," were designed to limit his effectiveness.

In 1990, the Bulls reached the Eastern Conference Finals once more against the Pistons, pushing the series to a close 3-4 outcome. Jordan's relentless pursuit of excellence and adaptation to the Pistons' aggressive defense showcased his growth and determination. The tide finally turned in 1991 when Jordan led the Bulls to a decisive 4-0 sweep over the Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals. This victory was not just a series win but a symbolic passing of the torch, as the Bulls would go on to win their first NBA Championship that year. Jordan's performance in this series marked the end of Detroit's reign over the Bulls and began Jordan's era of NBA dominance.

Michael Jordan vs. Indiana Pacers - 4-3 (1-0 in series)

1998 Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Pacers 4-3

The 1998 Eastern Conference Finals between Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls and the Indiana Pacers stands out as one of the most fiercely contested playoff series in Jordan's illustrious career. This series extended to a full seven games, reflecting the intense competition and high stakes.

The Pacers, led by Reggie Miller, provided one of the toughest challenges the Bulls faced on their way to their sixth NBA Championship. Each game was a battle, but Jordan's ability to perform under pressure was pivotal in securing the Bulls' victory. He delivered critical performances throughout the series, including a 28-point outing in the decisive Game 7, which demonstrated his clutch prowess and leadership.

Michael Jordan vs. Los Angeles Lakers - 4-1 (1-0 in series)

1991 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Lakers 4-1

The 1991 NBA Finals marked Michael Jordan's first championship series, where he led the Chicago Bulls against the Los Angeles Lakers. This series was not only a significant milestone in Jordan's career but also a symbolic passing of the torch from Magic Johnson to Jordan as the face of the NBA.

The Bulls defeated the Lakers 4-1 in a convincing fashion. Jordan's performances were spectacular, showcasing his scoring, playmaking, and defensive abilities. He averaged 31.2 points, 11.4 assists, 6.6 rebounds, 2.8 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game, earning him the NBA Finals MVP. His leadership and dominance were on full display, particularly in Game 2, where he executed the famous mid-air hand-switch layup, which has since become an iconic moment in NBA history.

Michael Jordan vs. Miami Heat - 10-1 (3-0 in series)

1992 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Heat 3-0

1996 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Heat 3-0

1997 Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Heat 4-1

Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls faced the Miami Heat in three different playoff series, displaying dominant performances in each encounter. The Bulls, led by Jordan, compiled an impressive 10-1 record against the Heat, showcasing their superiority during these matchups. In the 1992 Eastern Conference First Round, Jordan helped the Bulls sweep the Heat in a decisive 3-0 series. His all-around performance set the tone for the Bulls' playoff run, which would ultimately lead to their second consecutive NBA Championship.

The 1996 series saw a similar pattern, with the Bulls again sweeping the Heat 3-0 in the first round. This series was part of the Bulls' historic 72-win season, and Jordan was instrumental in ensuring a quick advancement in the playoffs, contributing significantly to both scoring and defensive efforts. The most competitive series came in the 1997 Eastern Conference Finals, where the Bulls faced a stronger Heat team but still managed to win the series 4-1. Jordan's leadership and clutch performances were crucial, especially in close games, to guide the Bulls past the Heat and eventually to another NBA Championship.

Michael Jordan vs. Milwaukee Bucks - 4-4 (1-1 in series)

1985 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Bucks 1-3

1990 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Bucks 3-1

In the 1985 Eastern Conference First Round, during Jordan's rookie season, the Bulls faced a tough Bucks team and were defeated 1-3. This series was one of Jordan's first playoff experiences and, despite the loss, provided him with valuable insights into the intensity of postseason basketball. Jordan's effort was noticeable, but the team overall lacked the depth to go further.

The rematch came in the 1990 Eastern Conference First Round, where a more experienced and confident Jordan led the Bulls to a 3-1 series victory over the Bucks. By this time, Jordan had evolved into a more complete player, and his performance helped the Bulls assert their dominance. This series win was part of the Bulls' building momentum that would lead to their first championship the following year.

Michael Jordan vs. New York Knicks - 19-8 (5-0 in series)

1989 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. Knicks 4-2

1991 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Knicks 3-0

1992 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. Knicks 4-3

1993 Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Knicks 4-2

1996 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. Knicks 4-1

Michael Jordan's playoff duels with the New York Knicks epitomized the peak of NBA playoff rivalry and drama in the 1990s. Jordan led the Bulls to victory in all five series against the Knicks, showcasing his unparalleled ability to elevate his game during crucial moments.

In 1989, Jordan began his series of playoff victories against the Knicks, setting the tone with a challenging six-game win. The rivalry intensified in 1992, with a fiercely contested series that extended to seven games, highlighting Jordan's resilience and clutch performances, especially in Game 7.

The 1993 Eastern Conference Finals saw Jordan once again leading the Bulls past the Knicks in a six-game series that was crucial for the Bulls' first three-peat. His performance in these games was a testament to his dominance in the playoffs.

By the 1996 Eastern Conference Semifinals, during the Bulls' historic 72-win season, Jordan's leadership and scoring prowess were on full display as he guided Chicago to a 4-1 series win, contributing significantly to their fourth NBA Championship.

Michael Jordan vs. Oklahoma City Thunder - 4-2 (1-0 in series)

1996 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. SuperSonics 4-2

The 1996 NBA Finals featured Michael Jordan leading the Chicago Bulls against the Seattle SuperSonics, a series that extended to six games. This championship was particularly significant as it marked Jordan's return to the NBA Finals after his first retirement, and it was part of the Bulls' historic 72-win season.

Jordan was pivotal in securing the Bulls' fourth NBA Championship, showcasing his leadership and scoring ability throughout the series. He averaged 27.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. His performance earned him the NBA Finals MVP, highlighting his crucial role in the Bulls' success. The series was a display of Jordan's ability to perform at the highest level under intense playoff pressure, helping to cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Michael Jordan vs. Orlando Magic - 6-4 (1-1 in series)

1995 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. Magic 2-4

1996 Eastern Conference Finals: Bulls vs. Magic 4-0

Michael Jordan's playoff encounters with the Orlando Magic in the mid-90s were pivotal moments in his career, particularly marking his full return to NBA dominance after his first retirement.

In the 1995 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Jordan and the Bulls faced a young and talented Magic team led by Shaquille O'Neal and Penny Hardaway. This series, occurring shortly after Jordan's return to basketball, ended in a 2-4 loss for the Bulls. Jordan, still regaining his full basketball form, faced challenges in this series, notably highlighted by Nick Anderson's steal in Game 1, which symbolized the Bulls' struggle.

However, the defeat in 1995 fueled Jordan's determination, leading to a fierce comeback the following year. In the 1996 Eastern Conference Finals, a fully prepared and peak-performing Jordan led the Bulls to a resounding 4-0 sweep over the Magic. This series showcased Jordan's enhanced skills and relentless drive, as he averaged 29.5 points per game, effectively reversing the previous year's disappointment and propelling the Bulls towards their fourth NBA Championship during the historic 72-win season.

Michael Jordan vs. Philadelphia 76ers - 8-2 (2-0 in series)

1990 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. 76ers 4-1

1991 Eastern Conference Semifinals: Bulls vs. 76ers 4-1

Michael Jordan's playoff battles with the Philadelphia 76ers showcased his exceptional performances and the Bulls' clear dominance. In the 1990 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Jordan helped lead the Bulls to a decisive 4-1 series victory. He was a dominant force, averaging 43.0 points, 6.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, and 2.8 steals per game, asserting his capability to influence the game on both ends of the court.

The 1991 series saw a repeat of the outcome, with the Bulls defeating the 76ers 4-1 as part of their march towards the NBA Championship. Jordan played a pivotal role, averaging 29.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, and 2.6 steals per game. His all-around contributions were crucial in thwarting the 76ers' efforts and advancing the Bulls' playoff ambitions.

Michael Jordan vs. Phoenix Suns - 4-2 (1-0 in series)

1993 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Suns 4-2

The 1993 NBA Finals showcased Michael Jordan leading the Chicago Bulls to victory against the Phoenix Suns in a thrilling six-game series. This series was a highlight of Jordan's career, as it secured the Bulls their third consecutive NBA Championship, completing their first three-peat.

Jordan was extraordinary throughout the Finals, putting up monumental performances that included averaging 41.0 points per game, along with 8.5 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.7 steals. His scoring prowess was on full display, particularly in Game 4, where he scored 55 points, one of the highest in NBA Finals history. Jordan's relentless drive and ability to elevate his game when it mattered most were pivotal in overcoming the Suns' challenge, led by Charles Barkley.

Michael Jordan vs. Portland Trail Blazers - 4-2 (1-0 in series)

1992 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Trail Blazers 4-2

The 1992 NBA Finals featured one of Michael Jordan's most memorable performances, leading the Chicago Bulls to a six-game series win over the Portland Trail Blazers. This victory marked the Bulls' second consecutive NBA Championship and further established Jordan as the preeminent player in the NBA.

Jordan was sensational throughout the series, famously making six three-pointers in the first half of Game 1, a moment capped by his iconic shrug as he ran back down the court, signaling his disbelief at his own hot shooting. He averaged 35.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game in the series, showcasing his all-around skills and ability to dominate on basketball's biggest stage.

His duel with Clyde Drexler, one of the other premier guards in the league, was a key storyline of the Finals. Jordan's performances not only led to a Bulls victory but also earned him his second NBA Finals MVP award, solidifying his status as the top player in the game.

Michael Jordan vs. Utah Jazz - 10-4 (2-0 in series)

1997 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Jazz 4-21998 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Jazz 4-2

Michael Jordan faced the Utah Jazz in two consecutive NBA Finals, in 1997 and 1998, each time leading the Chicago Bulls to a 4-2 series victory. These series were critical in solidifying the Bulls’ dynasty with their fifth and sixth NBA championships, and they provided some of the most iconic moments in NBA history.

In the 1997 NBA Finals, Jordan's legendary "Flu Game" in Game 5 exemplified his determination and ability to perform under physically challenging conditions. Despite severe flu symptoms, Jordan scored 38 points in a crucial win that swung the series in the Bulls' favor. Over the series, he averaged 32.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, earning the NBA Finals MVP.

The 1998 Finals featured one of the most memorable shots in NBA history, Jordan’s game-winning jumper in Game 6. This shot clinched the series and the Bulls' sixth championship, famously known as "The Last Shot." Jordan was again phenomenal, averaging 33.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game throughout the series and securing his sixth Finals MVP award.

Michael Jordan vs. Washington Wizards - 3-0 (1-0 in series)

1997 Eastern Conference First Round: Bulls vs. Bullets 3-0

Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls faced the Washington Bullets in the first round of the 1997 NBA playoffs, sweeping the series 3-0. This matchup highlighted the Bulls' dominance as they embarked on their quest for a fifth NBA Championship.

Jordan was instrumental throughout the series, showcasing his typical scoring prowess and leadership. He led the Bulls with a series-high of 37 points in Game 2, emphasizing his ability to elevate his performance in the playoffs. Overall, Jordan's play was a critical factor in the Bulls' efficient disposal of the Bullets, setting the tone for their successful postseason run.