A look back at when the Chicago Bulls eliminated the New York Knicks in Game 7 of the 1992 Eastern Conference Semifinals

When push came to shove, Michael Jordan and the Bulls were at their best.

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Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan often rose up to the occasion when his team’s back was against the wall. He failed in his first Game 7, losing to the Detroit Pistons in the 1990 Eastern Conference Finals, 93-74. However, when placed in a similar situation a couple of years later with their title reign on the line against a bruising and intense New York Knicks squad, the Bulls and their leader rose to the occasion.

Asserted their dominance

Back in 1992, the Bulls and the Knicks faced off in a winner-take-all Game 7 with a seat in the Eastern Conference Playoffs on the line. The Bulls were heavy favorites in this series, especially after their regular-season rampage that saw them finish with a league-best 67-15 record.

However, the Knicks—led by Patrick Ewing, Xavier McDaniel, and John Starks—were up to the task and stayed close with the mighty Bulls, forcing a Game 7 with a 100-86 victory in Game 6. The stage was set for what many expected would be a physical affair. However, the Bulls quickly reminded the Knicks who the champs were—turning the game into a rout in the second half where they outscored their foes, 54-30, for a lopsided 110-81 win.

Jordan at his best

His Airness was once again phenomenal, pouring in 42 points, six rebounds, four assists, two steals, and three blocks. MJ also got plenty of help from Scottie Pippen who recorded a triple-double of 17 points, 11 boards, and 11 dimes to help Chicago advance to the next round, where they would move past the Cleveland Cavaliers, 4-2.

In the Finals, the Bulls faced off against the Portland Trail Blazers and emerged victorious for their second NBA title in a row.