Bulls’ Andre Drummond continues to make impact in limited role originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
Presented by Nationwide Insurance Agent Jeff Vukovich
In 2015-16, Andre Drummond played in the first of his two All-Star games and earned third team All-NBA honors by averaging 16.2 points and a league-high 14.8 rebounds.
His per-36 minute averages that season? 17.7 points and 16.2 rebounds.
Drummond’s per-36 minute averages this season? 16.8 points and 16.4 rebounds.
Granted, Drummond’s role is far different from when he served as a mainstay for the Detroit Pistons, leading the NBA in rebounding four times. He averaged 31.1 minutes over his 7-1/2 seasons in Detroit, while he is playing 13.8 minutes this season.
But the Bulls are benefitting from his buy-in and his energy.
“I got a lot left in the tank, man. Still very healthy. Still very young,” Drummond said Monday. “I still have a lot left to give. I know my role for this team and what I have to give. So I try to do it to the best of my ability.”
Don’t get it twisted. Drummond still believes he’s a starting center in the NBA. And that’s not a bad thing. This mindset and energy has helped him make an impact more often than not in his one-plus seasons with the Bulls.
And given how poorly the Bulls have started games this season, Drummond has played with a reserve group that has helped flip the script of several games this season.
“I think we just know our role,” Drummond said. “From the moment I got here last year to the present day, we made a pact to make sure we impact the game in any way possible when we get out there. Our job is to bring energy if we’re down or, if our team has it rolling, our job is to sustain that or do better. For us, we’re excited about the chemistry we have. We love playing alongside each other.”
That includes newfound chemistry with Jevon Carter and Torrey Craig, the latter of whom is back to a reserve role after starting seven games.
“Playing with those guys has been a lot of fun. Torrey is one of the better defenders in our league. Jevon is a great guard and great shooter and also a great vocal leader….
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/bulls-andre-drummond-continues-impact-181302680.html
Author : NBC Sports Chicago
Publish date : 2023-11-20 18:13:02
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