Coby White faced challenges as the Chicago Bulls’ primary offensive option following Zach LaVine’s trade to the Sacramento Kings on February 2. Over the 10 games after the deal, White averaged 17.0 points while shooting just 39.6 percent from the field.
Thrust into the role of Chicago’s top scorer, White became the focal point of opposing defenses, which strategized to contain him as LaVine’s natural successor. During this stretch, it was Josh Giddey who took on much of the scoring burden, averaging 19.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 6.6 assists with impressive 51/56/84 shooting splits.
However, White eventually adapted to the defensive pressure, as evidenced by his recent accolades—ones that place him in elite company within Bulls history.
White was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week for March 10-16, posting 27.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game while scoring at least 20 points in eight straight contests. A week later, he earned the award again, upping his production to 30.3 points per game on 56/39/85 shooting over four games.
By winning the award in consecutive weeks, White joined Michael Jordan as the only players in Bulls history to achieve the feat. According to NBA.com, he was the league’s only guard last week to average at least 30 points while shooting 50 percent or better from the field. He has now recorded 20 or more points in 13 straight games, including a 37-point performance in a victory over the Nuggets on March 24. Over the Bulls’ last three games, he has scored 35, 36, and 37 points.