There were also the rumors that Michael Jordan's dad was killed as payback for Michael's gambling debts. I used to accept that as fact, although I've seen subsequent reporting that strongly discounts it.
I don't know if you can tarnish Jordan's career, or if we're even looking the other way. The dude is a competition junkie, and there are tons of anecdotes from golf courses, casinos, and informal practices of Jordan making high stakes bets with anyone who will take them. It's not exactly an admirable quality, but it does explain his incredible in-game performances, and that's what he's remembered for.
Not sure if people really looked the other way on Jordan's Hall of Fame induction speech, where he went off on some bitter and unnecessary flexes on anyone who ever doubted him. I recall the reaction as mostly: Whoa. That's what's on your mind when you're receiving the game's highest honor?