The Bill Simmons Podcast How Great Were the ’96 Bulls? Plus: 1996 ECF Game 2 RewatchaBulls With Joe House | The Bill Simmons Podcast
May 6, 2020
Dive into the iconic 1996 Chicago Bulls as their legendary status is put under the microscope. The discussion contrasts their dominance with other all-time great teams, like the Miami Heat and Warriors. Listen to lively debates about the physicality of basketball across eras and how strategies differ today. A rewatch of the thrilling Eastern Conference Finals showcases pivotal moments and the impact of injuries. Personal anecdotes and nostalgia for this powerhouse team bring their cultural significance to life.
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1996 NBA Talent Dilution
- The 1996 NBA league had expanded, diluting the talent pool compared to earlier years.
- This makes the Bulls' 72-win season less impressive statistically.
Expansion Impact on Wins
- Utah's win increase from the early 90s to mid-90s despite similar or worse roster construction highlights the impact of expansion.
- The diluted talent pool inflated win totals in the mid-90s.
Rodman's Cultural Impact
- Dennis Rodman's addition to the Bulls in '96 created a cultural phenomenon.
- The team's fame transcended sports, similar to iconic music acts.