Predicting the Next Chicago Bulls 1-On-1 Champion

(#5) Coby White vs (#12) Daniel Gafford

Back to business as usual, though we do so with a pair of rookies. The pair of White (seventh overall) and Daniel Gafford (38th overall) have quickly endeared themselves to fans. White is a dynamic young scorer who set records this season. Gafford in athletic as all get out and has an energy that conjures up memories of fellow Arkansas alum, Bobby Portis.

There is the obvious element of David and Goliath here. White is listed at 6’4” while Gafford checks in at 6’10”; not close. But the former’s game is predicated on hitting shots far out of the latter’s comfort zone. Gafford also showed inconsistent touch around the rim early so a miss isn’t out of the question. Once White hits one, it’s a wrap.

Winner: White

(#8) Otto Porter vs (#9) Chandler Hutchison

Our pivot match might also be our most exciting. It’s also another heavily influenced by off-court reasons. For both players, injuries were a bugaboo this season. Otto Porter missed 50 games with a foot injury. Chandler Hutchison missed 27 games and got shut down to have shoulder surgery before everything was halted.

There is one inch and two pounds difference between these two and both advantages belong to Porter. Combine that with his better shooting (38 percent from deep in a down year) and veteran savvy and Hutchison’s (31 percent from three) path to victory seems less obvious. The younger Hutchison’s edge in athleticism keeps it close, though.

Winner: Porter