Doug McDermott making first start for Chicago Bulls

Before the 2014 NBA Draft, the Chicago Bulls couldn’t stop their gushing over former Creighton star Doug McDermott.

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It was said the front office felt as if Doug McDermott was essentially hand created for what they needed and the team was determined to nab him with their selection spot. Unfortunately the Denver Nuggets beat them to the punch though the relentless Bulls stuck with their plan and eventually acquired Doug McDermott via trade.

Now he’ll be starting his first ever NBA game as Mike Dunleavy is out with a knee injury prompting Doug McDermott’s promotion to the startling lineup.

Mike Dunleavy will not play tonight because of left knee soreness. Rookie Doug McDermott is expected to make his first professional start.
— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) October 11, 2014

While it’s just preseason it’s still a little odd to see the Chicago Bulls giving Doug McDermott the start considering head coach Tom Thibodeau suggested the rookie would have to ‘earn his minutes’ though later backtracked a bit on the statement. It’s also a little shocking to see Tony Snell left on the bench in favor of McDermott though it’s possible the team wants to see what the rookie can do in extended action.

There was significant speculation suggesting that Doug McDermott could also crack the Chicago Bulls starting rotation earlier this summer or at minimum see hefty minutes off the bench in a sixth/seventh man role. That appears to be more likely in comparison to starting though it’s possible we could be seeing the start of an era tonight if Doug McDermott makes a lasting impression.

McDermott will be in for a challenge come his first NBA start as he and the Chicago Bulls will be taking on Jabari Parker and the Milwaukee Bucks.

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