Fueled by a 22-point, 5-assist evening for the Bulls’ emerging young guard Coby White, Chicago grabbed their third straight victory by beating the San Antonio Spurs 114-95. Now an incredible 8-3 in Zach LaVine’s absence, each passing game is becoming more difficult to justify keeping the two-time All-Star once healthy. Andre Drummond made his mark on NBA history off the bench and defensively held Victor Wembanyama to his career-low seven points on just 3-for-8 from the floor. White’s red-hot December did not slow last night, making two more three-point shots and inserting himself among the best shooters leaguewide.
Stephen Curry, Luka Doncic, Coby White
Behind two three-point field goals last night and 42 in December, White has quietly been one of the most lethal shooters in the NBA. Only trailing Curry and Doncic on the season, he’s one of three players with over 90 three-pointers made in 2023. More impressively, of the 18 players with over 185 attempted deep shots on the year, he’s the only one shooting over 42% on the long ball.
Third in three-point field goals made, ninth in three-point shots attempted, and sixth in three-point percentage (minimum 150 attempts), he’s undeniably one of the best snipers leaguewide.
Since LaVine’s injury, Coby White has been an All-Star. Averaging 24.5 points, 6.4 assists, and 6.7 rebounds in a dozen games without Chicago’s star guard, if White can continue those averages over the next two months, he’ll be a surefire first-time All-Star nominee. He will likely be extended an offer to represent the Bulls in the NBA Three-Point Contest, which he expanded on earlier this month.
Andre Drummond’s Historic Night
Andre Drummond has been Chicago’s most unsung free agency add for the past two seasons. Never deterred, despite being the most fluctuated player in and out of the Bulls’ lineup, his veteran leadership, offensive power, and rebounding abilities have kept Chicago afloat in many instances. Despite only playing 13 minutes per outing since arriving, he’s led the team in dunks and offensive rebounds. Last night was no exception to his sneaky excellence.
The walking definition of mastering a role once it’s given, Drummond has fulfilled every intention head coach Billy Donovan has set forth for the 30-year-old journeyman. On his sixth team throughout his career, averaging his lowest minutes since entering the NBA, it would be easy for Drummond to cruise to retirement or refute his role on a struggling Bulls team. He’s been a constant source of energy, force, and excitement off the bench and supplies traits that no one else on the roster can bring.
Chicago will look to continue their outstanding December run on Saturday, playing host to the Cleveland Cavaliers. White and Drummond are two of the several Bulls who have enjoyed a spectacular increase in production and efficiency this month, making many wonder if LaVine’s impact trickled further than anticipated.
