Chicago Bulls: 2017-18 team awards

Sixth Man of the Year: Bobby Portis

Two seasons ago, I gave top rookie honors to Bobby Portis following the 2015-16 season. While showing glimpses of potential during his first two NBA seasons, Portis had failed to prove that he was capable of playing at a high level on a consistent basis.

Unfortunately, he didn’t exactly begin this season on the right foot either, getting into a preseason altercation with Nikola Mirotic that earned him an eight-game suspension. But what started out as a distraction turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

Not only did he and Mirotic play some of the best basketball of their careers when the two forwards returned to the court, Portis also enjoyed his best season as a member of the Bulls. He posted career bests in points (13.2 per contest) rebounds (6.8) and assists (1.7). It worth noting that his 35.9 conversion rate from 3-point range was a career high as well.

The incident between the two players that resulted in Mirotic not only missing 23 games, but eventually being dealt to the New Orleans Pelicans was unfortunate. On the bright side of things, Portis finally earned the playing time he had been seeking and Mirotic has played in key role in helping the Pelicans to advance to the second round of the playoffs.

The Bulls have some decisions to make in regards to which reserves they will retain. On the heels of a breakout season, though, Portis figures to be a key piece of the rotation going forward.