Jordan s 1998 Finals Scout Report: Shooting S-Class, breaking through S-Class, but there is only one weakness

On the eve of the 1998 Finals, the Jazz wrote a detailed scout report for Jordan. This report not only reveals the technical characteristics of Jordan, who was 35 years old at the time, but also deeply analyzes his advantages and relative weaknesses. So, let’s take a look at how scouts evaluate Jordan. The report shows that 80% of the Bulls' offense is under the hands of Jordan. This highlights Jordan's core position in the team's offensive system. Jordan's offensive skills are excellent. He is proficient in various scoring methods and can create shooting opportunities at any moment. His shooting fake moves are excellent, both in catch jumpers and after dribbling. His offensive skills are very well integrated, and he especially likes to use tentative steps to create shooting space.

Jordan is also at the top level in terms of breakthroughs. He can shoot the bow with both left and right hands, which makes him more threatening and flexible when breaking through. Even when facing multiple defenses, he can easily finish the basket with his excellent ball-handling skills and physical coordination. The report shows that Jordan was able to easily finish the end after the confrontation at the basket, which reflects his strong physical fitness and basket skills.

It is worth mentioning that Jordan's mid-range shot and finishing ability at the basket were rated as S-level. In that era, mid-range shooting was one of the main scoring methods, and Jordan was undoubtedly at the top of the list in this technology. He is equally excellent in finishing ability at the basket, both in dunks and layups.

Jordan also showed extraordinary abilities in singles. According to the report, 17% of Jordan's offense comes from one-on-one singles. In singles, he likes to drive two to three steps and then pull up the jump shot. This singles ability makes Jordan the team's most reliable scoring point at critical moments.

In addition, Jordan's performance at a critical moment is also a highlight of his offensive end. The report pointed out that Jordan is a player "born for critical moments" and has strong psychological qualities. Even with little game time left, he can hit key shots. This "big heart" performance has made him the team's savior in many games. The report also mentioned Jordan's performance on the defensive end. While Jordan's brilliance on the offensive end masked his contribution on the defensive end, he is actually a very good defensive player. His speed, agility and judgment allow him to effectively interfere with his opponent's offense. His enthusiasm and commitment on the defensive end are also commendable, which makes him not only a scoring machine, but also a comprehensive basketball player on the court.

Weakness: Three-pointer

Although Jordan is almost impeccable on the offensive end, the report also points to a relatively weak link - three-pointer ability. Compared to his outstanding performance in mid-range and inside, Jordan's three-point shooting percentage is slightly inferior. Jordan shot 37% from three-pointers, the report shows. In that era when three-pointers were not yet popularized, although this shooting percentage could be considered to be of medium level in the league, against the backdrop of his many top offensive methods, the three-pointers seemed a bit weak.

This scout report provides us with a unique perspective that allows us to gain an in-depth understanding of Jordan's comprehensiveness and dominance on the field. Although he has certain relative weaknesses in three-pointers, this does not prevent him from becoming a legend in basketball history. Jordan’s diversity on offensive end and his performance at critical moments, as well as his dedication, have jointly created his immortal status in NBA history.