The Chicago Bulls must avoid these 3 trade deadline mistakes

2. Don’t trade Andre Drummond when he’s thriving

The Bulls acquired Andre Drummond this summer on a 2-year, $6.6 million contract. This was a fantastic addition, especially since they were able to get a 2-time All-Star for just $3.3 million per year. Drummond has had an up-and-down year with the Bulls so far, struggling to get minutes in Billy Donovan’s rotation that favored Derrick Jones Jr. as a backup center off the bench. However, Drummond has been excellent in the minutes he’s been given.

In games where he played more than 15 minutes, Drummond averaged 10.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game on 66.7% shooting from the field. These are tremendous numbers in such short playing time, as he has only reached the 20-minute mark 4 times this season.

Drummond’s numbers per 36 minutes have also been unbelievable, as he is leading the league in rebounds with 18.8 and is 2nd in the league in offensive boards with 6.1 per 36. His tremendous efficiency has placed him in the top 20 in PER and first in rebound rate. Solely considering Drummond’s impact on the glass, he is worth keeping on the Bulls as the team has struggled heavily with rebounding.

Andre Drummond is playing too well to justify trading him now.

Outside of that, Drummond has proven his worth over the past 4 games, recording two double-doubles and being the standout performer against the Spurs. Drummond was able to score 21 points on 9-9 shooting in just 21 minutes, while also adding 15 rebounds and 3 steals. He was a walking highlight reel, producing some of his best plays of the season:

Overall, Drummond has been extremely valuable in his limited time on the court this season, and his style of play fits the Bulls’ needs. As Andre continues to hit his stride, it would be a big mistake to send him away, especially considering the cheap contract that he plays on.