The Chicago Bulls owe their resurgence in the standings to the outstanding performance of their players on the court, some more than others. Take for instance backup point guard D.J. Augustin, who since his acquisition in December has carried the torch for the Bulls’ cold offense. Despite being just a bench player, his contributions arguably can stack up to the best in the league.
As the NBA award season nears, Augustin’s name should be rotating in circles for the Sixth Man of the Year Award, but a lack of media attention and team experience may keep him from bringing home the trophy.
Statistically, Augustin is scoring 12.0 points and 4.4 assists per game. Despite his slight hiccup in game play last February, where he seemingly lost all ability he once had shooting the ball, he has since picked up his game and has become the Bulls’ dominant offensive force.
There’s a strong line of contestants for the Sixth Man Award this year. Fellow teammate and all-around dominant backup power forward Taj Gibson is in the top three for the award. Gibson’s play this year has been nothing short of extraordinary, but Augustin should definitely be considered in the top-five.
When it comes down to it, will Augustin win the Sixth Man Award? Considering his burst to greatness has only just occurred in the past few months, it would be highly unlikely, but the best thing that he could look forward to is his name coming up in conversation.
If Augustin is combined with offensive powerhouses Derrick Rose and whomever the Bulls bring in this offseason (Nikola Mirotic, Carmelo Anthony, it’s too early to accurately predict), the Bulls’ offense would strike fear around the league. Regardless of whoever takes home the trophy, it should be taken as fact that Augustin will be one of the best bench players for years to come.
Tracy Martin is an NBA writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @TracyMartin23 or add him to your network on Google.
Related:
Chicago Bulls are the NBA’s Hottest Team in 2014 Thanks to Surging D.J. Augustin
Chicago Bulls’ Taj Gibson Has Proven That He Deserves the Sixth Man Award
DJ Augustin Should Be Chicago Bulls’ Starting Point Guard, Not Kirk Hinrich
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