Few “what if” scenarios in NBA history generate as much debate as the story that the Chicago Bulls once declined the biggest trade packageever for Scottie Pippen. Pippen was the perfect sidekick to Michael Jordan during Chicago’s dynasty, but rumors have swirled for decades about blockbuster offers the Bulls reportedly turned down.
So, did it really happen, and if so, what would the NBA look like today if the Bulls had pulled the trigger? Let’s break it down.
Why Scottie Pippen Was So Valuable To The Bulls
Before diving into the trade rumors, it’s important to understand just how vital Pippen was.
Defense: He was arguably the best perimeter defender of his era.Playmaking: A 6’8” forward who could run the offense, making Jordan’s scoring load lighter.Versatility: Pippen could guard multiple positions, rebound, and initiate fast breaks.The Trade Rumor: Houston Rockets’ Mega-Offer For Scottie Pippen
The most famous rumor centers on the Houston Rockets in 1994–95. Reports suggest the Rockets offered:
Clyde Drexler (Hall of Famer, fresh off an NBA Finals run)Otis Thorpe (All-Star big man)Draft compensation
All in exchange for Scottie Pippen.
Did The Bulls Really Decline It?
According to multiple sources (including long-time NBA reporters and retrospectives), yes — the Bulls declined.
Jerry Krause and the front office believed Pippen was younger and a better long-term fit.Even without Jordan, they wanted Pippen as the franchise cornerstone.The Rockets eventually pivoted and traded for Clyde Drexler from the Portland Trail Blazers instead.Other Rumored Blockbusters Involving Scottie Pippen
The Rockets deal wasn’t the only time Pippen’s name surfaced in trade talks.
1995–96: Rumors connected Pippen to the Toronto Raptors for a package including young star Damon Stoudamire.1997: The Bulls reportedly discussed trading Pippen to the Boston Celtics for a deal centered around multiple high draft picks (potentially Chauncey Billups + Ron Mercer).What If the Chicago Bulls Accepted?
Had the Bulls pulled the trigger:
With Drexler + Olajuwon in Houston: The Rockets may have built a dynasty in the mid-90s.Without Pippen in Chicago: Jordan’s return in 1995 might not have produced another three-peat.Legacy Shift: Pippen’s status as one of the greatest sidekicks (and 75th Anniversary Team member) might have looked very different.So, Was It the Biggest Package Ever?
While the “biggest ever” trade package in the NBA is subjective, few offers matched the combination of an active superstar (Drexler), an All-Star (Thorpe), and picks. For its era, it was massive.
Final Takeaway
The Chicago Bulls declined blockbuster trade packages for Scottie Pippen, including a reported offer from the Houston Rockets that could have changed NBA history.
Quick FAQ
Q: Did the Bulls really decline a trade for Scottie Pippen involving Clyde Drexler?
Yes. Reports confirm that Chicago turned down Houston’s mega-offer in the mid-90s.
Q: Why didn’t the Bulls trade Pippen?
They saw him as a long-term franchise cornerstone and crucial to future titles.
Q: What other trade rumors involved Pippen?
Toronto Raptors (Stoudamire package) and Boston Celtics (draft picks in 1997).
Q: Would Jordan have won titles without Pippen?
Debatable — but most analysts agree Pippen’s defense, playmaking, and versatility were essential.
The post Fact Check: Did The Bulls Decline The Biggest Trade Package Ever For Scottie Pippen? originally published on Total Pro Sports.