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Combo guard Kirk Hinrich makes his return to the Chicago Bulls this season where he started his career but some fans were not too pleased with the addition of “Captain Kirk.” I personally thought the pick-up of Hinrich was a great move by the Bulls, but maybe I am a little partial to Hinrich since I still do have his jersey.
However, I could see why some Bulls fans would be upset with this move. For one, Hinrich is not as young as he used to be and has lost a step or two. Also, he did not have great production last year for the Atlanta Hawks posting averages of 6.6 PPG, 2.8 APG, and 2.1 RPG in 48 games.
Hinrich’s numbers should go up because he will have an increased role with the Bulls as he can play either guard spot and plays tremendous defense. Hinrich should be able to average about 10 or 12 points and will be the main distributor for the Bulls. I could see Hinrich chipping in about five assists per game.
Some fans might expect Hinrich to score more but he would actually help the Bulls more with his passing and his defense. Hinrich will still get his points but it is more important that he gets everyone else involved.
Furthermore, Hinrich will need to save his energy for the defensive end as he will try to fill a void left by the departure of Ronnie Brewer. Hinrich is one of the best defenders in the league in my opinion and his defense is much underrated. In fact, a few seasons ago Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doug Collins said that Hinrich was the “best perimeter defender in the league.” That is some pretty high praise from Collins and I know that Hinrich will bring it on the defensive end this season.
With an increased role Hinrich will be getting more playing time than he got in with the Hawks. I really don’t think the Hawks gave him much of a chance and I cannot blame them with Jeff Teague’s development. However, Hinrich had a lot to do with Teague’s development and he will continue to mentor a “Teague.” The Bulls drafted Jeff Teague’s brother Marquis Teague in this year’s draft. Hinrich will be instrumental in helping to develop the young point guard.
Hinrich will have to step up because the Bulls will rely on him heavily. Hinrich will more than likely be the starting point guard for the Bulls until Rose gets back. In addition to his point guard duties he will split time at the shooting guard as he tries to find his groove with the three-point shot. Some people may not like the Hinrich signing but when you think about everything that he can do for the Bulls you can see why the Bulls brought him back.
Hinrich will be one of the most important Bulls players this season and I know he can help the Bulls out in a big way. I for one am glad to have Hinrich back and he will have a positive impact this season.
Alejandro Aviles is a writer for Rant Sports. He contributes content about the Chicago Bulls. @aaviles312
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