NBA 1986 Draft: A Turning Point in NBA History

The 1986 NBA draft is widely regarded as one of the most significant drafts in NBA history. Held on June 17, 1986, it marked a turning point for several teams and players.html">players who would go on to achieve great success in the league.

The top pick of the draft was james.html">James Johnson, also known as "Sleepy" Freddie, who was selected by the Miami Heat. However, it''s arguable that the most impactful player selected that year was Patrick Ewing, who was taken second overall by the New York Knicks. Ewing would go on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Knicks, leading them to the playoffs.html">playoffs multiple times and earning numerous accolades.

Other notable picks from the 1986 draft include Chris Morris (3rd overall), Karl Malone (4th overall), Detlef Schrempf (5th overall), and Steve Harris (7th overall). These players would all go on to have solid careers in the NBA, with some achieving All-Star status.

The draft also marked a significant turning point for the Chicago Bulls, who traded away their first-round pick to the Seattle supersonics.html">SuperSonics in exchange for Olden Polynice and Gerald Wilkins. This trade would ultimately benefit the Bulls in the long run, as they would go on to build a dynasty with michael.html">Michael jordan.html">Jordan at the helm.

In conclusion, the 1986 NBA draft was a pivotal moment in NBA history, marked by the selection of talented players like Patrick Ewing and Chris Morris. The draft also highlighted the importance of smart trades and team building, as seen with the Chicago Bulls'' bold move to acquire Wilkins and Polynice.