Magic Johnson, Los Angeles Lakers
Jordan has a great deal of respect for Magic Johnson, and the two are very good friends to this day. However, there is footage from the “Dream Team” days of 1992 where Jordan is seen talking about trash. Michael tells magic, “it’s the ’90s now.” Noting that the era of Johnson is somewhat over now.
Karl Malone, Utah Jazz
In 1997, Malone was the MVP, and the rivals behind what is known as the “Flu Game” that defined Michael’s legacy were his team. The Bulls were put to work by Karl alone, known as the Mailman, which, of course, set him up as a competition for Michael. We know by now how Michael handles something that might be better than him or jeopardizes him as the best.