10 Most Impactful Trades In NBA History

#5 Scottie Pippen (Seattle Supersonics to Chicago Bulls)

#33 Scottie Pippen

In 1987, Michael Jordan had just played three years in the league. He was still growing as a player and a person. The Bulls also recognized that if they were to make a deep run in the playoffs, he would require help.

Scottie Pippen wasn't seen as a must-have in the 1987 draft, but due to his athleticism and versatility, the Bulls were eager to snap him up.

So when the Seattle SuperSonics selected Pippen with the No. 5 overall pick, the Bulls sprung into action. Chicago sent center Olden Polynice, a second-round pick in the 1988 draft, and a first-round pick in the 1989 draft to Seattle; in exchange, the Bulls received Pippen and a 1989 first-round draft pick.

It's safe to say that Chicago got the better end of the deal with Pippen helping Jordan and the Bulls to six titles. He was also a seven-time All-Star and was named in the NBA's 50th anniversary All-Time team.

Polynice, on the other hand, finished with an average of 7.8 points and 6.7 rebounds for his career and the Sonics still haven't managed to win a title. They did, however, reach the Finals in 1996 where they ironically lost to the Bulls in six games.