Who Would Win: The 1995-96 Bulls vs. a Healthy 2018-19 Warriors with 1995 Rules

Analysing a hypothetical matchup between the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls and the 2018-19 Golden State Warriors under the NBA rules of 1995 provides a fascinating glimpse into how drastically the game has evolved. Several factors come into play, including team overviews, key considerations, and a concluding opinion.

Team Overview: The 1995-96 Chicago Bulls

The 1995-96 Chicago Bulls boasted a record of 72-10, the best in the franchise's history. The team was built on the foundation of:

Key Players: Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and Toni Kukoc. Strengths: Exceptional defense, unselfish ball movement, and elite scoring from Jordan and Pippen. The Bulls had a strong bench and were known for their tenacity and teamwork.

Team Overview: The 2018-19 Golden State Warriors

The 2018-19 Golden State Warriors had a record of 57-25 with the core of:

Key Players: Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. Strengths: Incredible shooting ability, offensive versatility, and a strong defensive unit. The Warriors were the hallmark of modern basketball with their emphasis on ball movement and three-point shooting.

Key Considerations

A. Rule Differences

1995 NBA rules were notably different, particularly in terms of hand-checking, which was more permissible. This difference would:

Benefit: The Bulls' physical style of defense. Limit: The Warriors' emphasis on perimeter shooting.

B. Defensive Matchups

The Bulls had a historically strong defense, with Rodman and Pippen anchoring their efforts. Their ability to defend multiple positions and disrupt the Warriors' offensive flow would be crucial. In contrast, the Warriors might struggle against the physicality and tenacity of the Bulls.

C. Offensive Styles

1. Bulls: Relying heavily on mid-range and post play led by Jordan and Pippen. Their game was built on dominance in the paint and creating opportunities for each other. Under 1995 rules, the Bulls' approach would allow them to exploit the more physical style to draw fouls and get to the rim.

2. Warriors: Thriving on three-point shooting and ball movement. They were a testament to the evolution of modern basketball, with their league-average defense and impeccable teamwork. However, under 1995 rules, the Warriors' outside shooting might be less effective due to the diminished emphasis on the three-point line.

D. Star Power

1. Michael Jordan: Often considered the greatest player of all time, his ability to perform in clutch situations would be a significant factor. His individual brilliance and ball-handling skills would allow him to create opportunities even against the most physical defense.

2. Warriors: A team of multiple All-Stars, each excelling in different facets. While their offensive capabilities were outstanding, their reliance on outside shooting might be vulnerable to the Bulls' physical style of play.

Conclusion

In a matchup under the 1995 NBA rules, the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls would likely have the advantage. Their defensive prowess and the physical style of play, coupled with the presence of Michael Jordan, would be difficult for the Warriors to counter. While the Warriors had exceptional talent and shooting, the Bulls' ability to control the game with their defense and physicality could tilt the scales in their favor.

Overall, while it would be a competitive matchup, the Bulls' historical success and style of play, suited to the era, would give them the edge.