Dennis Rodman Trade

A rivalry defined by Jordan's heroics and LeBron's resurgence.

The Bulls–Cavaliers rivalry is a National Basketball Association (NBA) rivalry between the Chicago Bulls and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Quick Facts

Season of trade: 1992-1993

Lore & Background

The rivalry began in earnest after the Bulls drafted Michael Jordan in 1984. Jordan's 'The Shot' in 1989 and a sequel in 1993 highlighted the Bulls' dominance. After Jordan's retirement, the rivalry reignited when Cleveland drafted LeBron James in 2003. The Cavaliers won their first playoff series against Chicago in 2010. The rivalry continued through the 2015 Eastern Conference semifinals, which Cleveland won. Both teams entered rebuilding phases after LeBron left Cleveland in 2018.

Reader's Guide

It only states that the Bulls won three of their six championships with Dennis Rodman. No trade details are provided.

Did You Know?

Michael Jordan scored a career-high 69 points against the Cavaliers on March 28, 1990.
Donovan Mitchell scored 71 points against the Bulls on January 2, 2023.
The Cavaliers and Bulls faced off in the 2024 NBA Cup, with Cleveland winning 144–126.