The Trail Blazers went all out and managed a thrilling victory away against the Suns, solidifying their position as the first in the Western Conference.
Behind the Trail Blazers, the Suns, Lakers, and Spurs were in hot pursuit, with the number of wins for each team differing by only about two, keeping the gap very small.
Any slip-up in the schedule could cause a change in the rankings, affecting the team's opponents in the playoffs.
In the Eastern Conference, the Celtics fell from their top position due to Bird's injuries, suffering consecutive defeats.
Meanwhile, internal strife within the Bulls continued, with BJ Armstrong contemplating a trade, and Pippen remaining at odds with management over contract issues.
Jordan grew increasingly distant from his teammates, especially Horace Grant, as the two hardly exchanged words off the court due to mutual disdain.
