4. Wendell Carter
The former Duke star wasn’t good enough to help Fred Hoiberg keep his job, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t playing good basketball. He’s starting to prove to the Bulls that he can be counted on as their starting center for the next decade.
Carter isn’t the flashiest player on Earth, but he’s a really solid player. He’s started 25 games for the Bulls this season and he hasn’t looked out-of-place in the slightest. Specifically, his defense has been better than scouts predicted. He’s averaging a solid 1.6 blocks per game on the young season.
The offensive side of his game needs a little more work. He’s averaging over 11 ppg, but he’s still not efficient on that end of the floor. His effective field goal percentage of 48.1 makes it obvious he has to become a better shooter.
Carter may never be a star, but he’s a solid bet to be an above average starter for the next decade. He’s a foundational piece for the Bulls no matter who becomes his next coach. In fact, Hoiberg’s firing could turn into a real positive for him. If Chicago hires a coach who can help Carter unlock his offensive potential, it could really help his immediate development.