Chicago Bulls: Former players we’d love to see in the BIG3

MIAMI - APRIL 27: Kirk Hinrich #12 and Ben Gordon #7 of the Chicago Bulls talk on the court in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Miami Heat during the 2007 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena on April 27, 2007 in Miami, Florida. The Bulls won 104-96. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2007 NBAE (Photo by Victor Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images)
MIAMI - APRIL 27: Kirk Hinrich #12 and Ben Gordon #7 of the Chicago Bulls talk on the court in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Miami Heat during the 2007 NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena on April 27, 2007 in Miami, Florida. The Bulls won 104-96. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2007 NBAE (Photo by Victor Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images)
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(Photo by Chris Elise/Getty Images)
(Photo by Chris Elise/Getty Images)

1. Kirk Hinrich

Kirk Hinrich had two runs with the Chicago Bulls. His first stint was right out of college, where he shined in Chicago from age 23 to age 29. After that, he bounced around a little bit before returning to Chicago at age 32 for his second stint with the Bulls.

Hinrich will always be one of the most beloved Chicago Bulls players in franchise history. He was a drama-free, hard-nosed, workhorse that was willing to play whatever role the team needed him to play. Early in his career, that meant being the starting point guard and a tough defender. Later in his career, however, it meant backing up Derrick Rose (and starting in his absence).

During his 11 seasons as a member of the Chicago Bulls, Hinrich averaged 11.4 points, 5.1 assists and 3.0 rebounds per game on 40.8 percent shooting from the field and 37.5 percent shooting from the 3-point line.

Hinrich has been one of the most reliable Bulls of my lifetime. He’s currently sitting at first all-time in 3-point field goals made for the Bulls, 3rd all-time in steals (behind Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen) and 4th all-time in minutes played.

There’s no doubt in my mind that “Captain Kirk” can still ball – he just needs an opportunity. The BIG3 could give him that opportunity.