MJ was aware that his departure was much needed for Pippen to blossom as a leader.
During his initial six-year stint alongside Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen established himself as a reliable No. 2 co-star, averaging 16.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game. He even snagged three All-Star nods, three All-Defensive Team picks, and two All-NBA team honors. Despite his invaluable contributions, Pip’s impact was often overlooked because of the brilliance of the five-time MVP.
Interestingly, it wasn’t until His Airness abruptly retired from the league in 1993 that Scott emerged as the Bull’s undisputed leader. Though the team never progressed passed the second round of playoffs, MJ himself recognized that his departure set the stage for Pippen’s leadership to blossom.
Jordan knew his absence did wonders for Pippen
In the first six years of his NBA career, Pippen had already established himself as one of the best perimeter defenders, who could also average 20 points per game if needed. However, it was after MJ decided to pursue a career in baseball that Scott’s capabilities truly came to the forefront. He finished with the third-most votes for the MVP award in 1994 after leading the Bulls in points, rebounds, and steals.
His stellar showings continued in the subsequent season when he became the second player behind Dave Cowens (in 1978) to lead his team in total points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. The seven-time All-Star also finished in the top 3 in Value Over Replacement Player in both ‘94 and ‘95. Furthermore, in 1995, the Arkansas native led the league in defensive rating - he became the shortest player to do so since the merger of the NBA and ABA in 1976.
Considering these extraordinary accomplishments, Mike recognized that his presence might have inadvertently overshadowed Pippen, preventing him from receiving the limelight his contributions truly merited.
"The best thing for Scottie was when I left. He understands what I've gone through and what he's going through. It's not an easy task. It's a tough responsibility. And for years I was able to take some of that light away from him," Jordan said. "When I walked away, he saw that light in a better situation including with himself. And it's helped him grow. Helped him mature."
Pippen became the leader that the Bulls players desired for
Upon his return to the team, the five-time MVP encountered a different atmosphere, where his perfection-driven leadership might have felt somewhat demanding to his teammates. However, it was Pippen who supported his teammates, providing assistance whenever they felt discouraged.
This was clear as players like Bill Wennington and Steve Kerr praised Pippen for balancing the team and working hard to help everyone contribute more meaningfully to team chemistry. Thus while Mike propelled the Bulls to championships through his unparalleled talent, Scott played a crucial role in nurturing his teammates’ overall growth within the team.
