Rising Stars Report Card: Grading the Young Chicago Bulls

Mar 31, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets forward Michael Beasley (8) prepares to shoot the ball as Chicago Bulls forward Nikola Mirotic (44) defends during the second quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 31, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets forward Michael Beasley (8) prepares to shoot the ball as Chicago Bulls forward Nikola Mirotic (44) defends during the second quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
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Mar 2, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Cameron Bairstow (41) shoots over Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) during the second half of a basketball game at Amway Center. The Magic won 102-89. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 2, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Cameron Bairstow (41) shoots over Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton (4) during the second half of a basketball game at Amway Center. The Magic won 102-89. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

Cameron Bairstow

In his second year, Cameron Bairstow has shown growth in limited action, but is also struggling to find a regular spot in the Chicago Bulls’ rotation.

Strengths

Bairstow has a nice mid-range game that works well in the pace-and-space offense that Hoiberg is famous for. While he is a young player that is adapting to the game, he has shown in flashes that he can play under control in a limited role.

Weaknesses

Bairstow has spent time playing in the D-League throughout portions of this season. In the absence of Noah, he would suit with the rest of his teammates and even find himself playing as a starter, but he hasn’t been able to capitalize on the opportunities thrown his way. Bairstow demonstrates rawness in his level of play that is complicated whenever he makes costly mistakes on the court.

Final Grade

C-