Back In The Day NBA, April 20, 1986: Michael Jordan Scored 63 Points Against Boston Celtics In Playoff Game

Chicago Bulls great Michael Jordan had a career game in the first round against Boston Celtics

Even in losses, Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan always made his presence known. 

Thirty-seven years ago on this day, Jordan had a playoff-record 63 points in the Bulls’ double overtime loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference first round. Jordan went 22 of 41 shooting from the field with zero 3-pointers. He also led Chicago in assists, steals and blocks, a performance that granted him praise from Celtics legend Larry Bird.

“I didn't think anyone was capable of doing what Michael has done to us,” Bird said. “He is the most exciting, awesome player in the game today. I think it's just God disguised as Michael Jordan.”

Jordan had to counter Celtics legends Bird, Kevin McHale, and Dennis Johnson, who combined for 78 points. His highest contributor was Orlando Woolridge, who scored 24 points on 9 of 27 shooting. Outside of those two, no Bulls player had more than 10 points. Jordan’s superstar contribution in the loss illustrated the need for help around him for championship contention. The Bulls traded with the Seattle SuperSonics to draft forward Scottie Pippen the next season.

I wonder how that worked out for Chicago.

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Jayden Armant is a contributor to Back in the Day NBA. He is a student at Howard University. He can be reached at jayden.armant@bison.howard.edu or follow him on Twitter @jaydenarmant.