14. Jerry Krause
Jerry Krause was a pivotal figure in the basketball world, known primarily for his role as the general manager of the Chicago Bulls during their dominant era in the 1990s. Despite his undeniable success in building a championship-winning team, Krause often found himself in the shadows of the players and coaches he worked with.
His unwavering determination and a keen eye for talent allowed him to assemble a roster that would become one of the greatest dynasties in the history of the NBA. Krause's ability to make intelligent trades and draft impactful players was crucial to the Bulls' six championships.
However, his relationships with the players, particularly Michael Jordan, were often strained due to his relentless pursuit of the team's success and his belief that no individual was more significant than the organization.
Krause's contributions to the Bulls' success cannot be understated, as he expertly built a team around Jordan and Scottie Pippen, hired Phil Jackson as head coach, and acquired vital role players. Despite the controversies and criticisms surrounding him, Krause's legacy in basketball remains an integral part of the Bulls' storied history.