Dennis Rodman ’s eccentric and intimidating personality often created challenges within organizations. However, Chicago Bulls assistant general manager Jim Stack, who conducted an extensive scouting report of the 6’7” forward, could see more than just that aspect of his personality. Though The Worm established himself as one of the most dominant rebounders in the game, Stak was most impressed by his ability to work tirelessly.
Stack on Dennis' motor
During Rodman’s two-year stint with the San Antonio Spurs, he led the league in rebounds each season. However, he struggled to establish a solid relationship with David Robinson. Moreover, coupled with the offensive voids in his game and his unpredictable nature, GM Jerry Krause initially remained skeptical about considering Dennis as a viable option for Chicago.
Nevertheless, Stack persuaded his senior to pursue a trade for the two-time DPOY by emphasizing how Rodman shared the same work rate as Michael Jordan in order to be better.
"What was compelling about Dennis is after he would play 45 minutes in a game, he would go in the weight room for an hour-and-a-half," Stack said . "I'd see Dennis in there, and he's working himself into a lather riding the exercise bike, lifting weights. That always stuck with me. The guy never gets tired. He was a freak like Michael in that respect. He was bionic."
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The gamble eventually paid off
Trading Will Perdue for The Worm was a significant gamble for the Bulls, who were desperate to re-enter championship contention after two consecutive early playoff eliminations.
However, standing tall of all the expectations, during his three seasons with coach Phil Jackson, Rodman averaged 34.6 minutes per game, scoring 5.2 points and grabbing 15.3 rebounds per game, leading the league in rebounding each campaign. Even in The Last Dance documentary (episode 3), Rodman revealed that he practiced his rebounding skills as late as 3-4 AM.
"I used to have my friends late at night, shit, 3:00, 4:00 in the morning, go to the gym. I said, 'Shoot the ball. Shoot over here, shoot over there,'" Rodman said. "I'd just sit there, react, react. I practiced a lot about the angle of the ball and trajectory of it."
So, although many were skeptical of bringing Rodman on board, Krause’s decision, influenced by Stack’s persuasion, stands as one of the most high-risk, high-reward moves that paid off handsomely in NBA history.
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