Chicago Bulls: Player grades through the All-Star break

By Luke Askew | Feb 19, 2019

CHICAGO, IL - FEBRUARY 9: Robin Lopez #42 of the Chicago Bulls hhi-fives teammates during the game against the Chicago Bulls on February 9, 2019 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /

Wendell Carter Jr.

Wendell Carter Jr. had a lot of Bulls fans (including me) extremely excited for this season. He’s a brilliant basketball mind, a reliable defender and a savvy offensive weapon. It’s a real shame his rookie season got cut short.

Carter appeared in 44 games before injuring his thumb. Over those 44 games, he averaged 10.3 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. Those aren’t Rookie of the Year numbers (especially when Luka Doncic is doing historical stuff in Dallas), but they’re solid numbers.

Wendell’s shown us that he has the ability to impact games without scoring the ball, which is a crucial attribute to have when playing next to guys like Zach LaVine, Lauri Markkanen and Otto Porter Jr.

The Bulls don’t need Carter to put up 20 points per game, and he likely never will. They just need him to fit into that Al Horford mold. They need him to defend at a high level, make smart passes and knock down shots when called upon.

Yes, Wendell has to learn how to defend without fouling (he was constantly in foul trouble this season), but a lot of young guys struggle with that concept. There’s nothing to be concerned about there.

Grade: B

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