The Chicago Bulls began shooting guards in 1980 and continued until 2024.

For more than a decade, Michael Jordan maintained the starting shooting guard position for the Bulls. However, other notable players have since taken over the position.

The first name that springs out when discussing Chicago Bulls’ shooting guards is Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time. Jordan accomplished excellence with Chicago, delivering six NBA titles with the organization. However, before and after Jordan came a number of shooting guards who did their best to hold down the spot. Currently, Zach LaVine occupies that position, however it is intriguing to observe the Bulls starting shooting guards from 1980 until 2024.

In the early ’80s, Reggie Theus was a great player for the Bulls. He was a powerful scorer and facilitator, averaging 20.3 points per game during his stint with the squad. Theus was recognized for his slick ball handling and ability to generate his own shot, making him a fan favorite and a major offensive weapon for the Bulls. These early years established the framework for the Bulls to become one of the most successful clubs in NBA history, notably in the ’90s with the emergence of Michael Jordan.

While Theus may not have attained the same degree of success as Jordan would, he had a significant role in creating the identity of the team during a transitional phase because he made two All-player Teams during this period and was a key player for the organization.
In 1984, Quintin Dailey took over the starting shooting guard job. Dailey was a prolific scorer and was generally the go-to option on offense. He had a penchant for going to the basket and drawing fouls, making him a difficult matchup for opposing defenders. However, Dailey’s stint with the Bulls was tarnished by off-court difficulties, which ultimately led to his departure from the franchise yet he held down the starting spot for 42 starts in 82 games played.

In 1985, the Chicago Bulls drafted Michael Jordan with the No. 3 overall choice, and he quickly took over as the team’s primary shooting guard. Jordan’s first season was nothing short of sensational, as he soon established himself as one of the most electric players in the NBA. He averaged an amazing 28.2 points per game, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year honor.

Despite being a rookie, Jordan’s talent and athleticism were evident from the outset. He demonstrated his scoring prowess with a stunning ability to drive to the basket, finish at the rim, and knock down mid-range jump jumpers. While Jordan’s individual brilliance was clear, the Bulls as a team struggled to achieve consistent success during his rookie season, finishing with a record of 38-44 yet nevertheless still made the playoffs but lost in the first round. Despite the team’s overall performance, Jordan’s impact was apparent, and he provided Bulls supporters with plenty of enthusiasm and hope for the future.

In 1986, the Chicago Bulls acquired the renowned George “The Iceman” Gervin to take over the starting shooting guard position with Jordan out with a fractured foot. Gervin was already a seasoned veteran in the NBA, noted for his silky scoring ability and characteristic finger roll. Although he was in the later stages of his career when he joined the Bulls, Gervin still had enough to contribute on the offensive end.

Gervin supplied the Bulls with a strong scoring presence, averaging 16.2 points per game. His expertise and basketball IQ were vital to a young Bulls club that was still finding its identity. Gervin’s leadership and coaching of younger players, especially Michael Jordan, helped accelerate their development and comprehension of the game but this was simply a stop-gap until Jordan returned from injury because the 1986 season would be his last season in the NBA.

From 1987 to 1993, Michael Jordan secured his place as the face of the Chicago Bulls and one of the greatest players in NBA history. Following his phenomenal rookie season, Jordan continued to raise his game to new heights, establishing himself as a dominant force on both sides of the floor whenever he returned from injury. His scoring prowess was unsurpassed, and he became known for his amazing athleticism, unmatched work ethic, and competitive spirit.

During this span, Jordan won three NBA titles with the Bulls (1991, 1992, and 1993) and earned three NBA Finals MVP trophies. He also won three regular-season MVP honors, in 1988, 1991, and 1992, and won seven scoring crowns. His list of awards and achievements throughout these years is remarkable, and he set countless records that still hold today.

Jordan’s ability to take over games and make clutch plays in vital moments made him a legend. He had a tendency for performing at his best when it mattered most, giving him the reputation as one of the greatest clutch players in NBA history. His memorable “Flu Game” in the 1997 NBA Finals, where he scored 38 points while battling flu-like symptoms, is only one illustration of his ability to rise to the situation.

The 1992-1993 season marked the conclusion of Jordan’s initial time with the Bulls, as he announced his retirement from basketball to pursue a career in professional baseball. His departure left a gap in the Bulls roster and had supporters wondering if the team could maintain its dominance without him. Jordan’s stint with the Bulls from 1987 to 1993 is usually considered one of the greatest individual runs in sports history, and he remains an iconic figure in both Chicago and basketball lore.

In 1994, following Michael Jordan’s sudden resignation from basketball to pursue a career in professional baseball, Pete Myers stepped into the starting shooting guard role for the Chicago Bulls. Myers was a journeyman player who had bounced about the NBA before finding a home in Chicago. While he didn’t possess the star power or scoring skills of Jordan, Myers was a competent defender and a capable role player.

During the 1993-1994 season, Myers provided the Bulls with a solid presence on the defensive end and contributed to the team’s overall effort with his hustle and intensity. He averaged 7.9 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, playing a complimentary role alongside Scottie Pippen and the rest of the Bulls’ supporting group. Despite the team’s combined efforts, the Bulls struggled to repeat the success they had achieved with Jordan, finishing the season with a record of 55-27 and losing in the second round of the playoffs.

In 1995, the Chicago Bulls made a huge change to their lineup by bringing in Ron Harper to take over the starting shooting guard position. Harper, a versatile and athletic guard, was coming off a successful tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers and was noted for his defensive skills and ability to score both inside and outside. His arrival offered a fresh dimension to the Bulls’ roster and helped secure their standing as championship contenders.

During the season, Harper’s first with the Bulls, he provided the team with a balanced scoring attack and was a vital contributor on the defensive end. He averaged 6.9 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, while also serving as a lockdown defender against opposing guards. Harper’s stature, quickness, and basketball IQ made him a perfect match with Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and the rest of the Bulls’ elite lineup.

From 1996 to 1998, Michael Jordan returned to the Chicago Bulls and resumed his role as the team’s starting shooting guard. Jordan’s second career with the Bulls was arguably even more successful than his first, as he led the team to an unprecedented second three-peat, winning three straight NBA championships (1996, 1997, and 1998) and earning three more NBA Finals MVP titles.

During these years, Jordan continued to exhibit his unrivaled scoring ability, remarkable athleticism, and competitive fire. He earned the NBA scoring championship in each of these seasons and was voted the NBA Most Valuable Player in 1996 and 1998. His performance in the 1996 NBA Finals, where he averaged 27.3 points per game and led the Bulls to a series win over the Seattle SuperSonics, was particularly notable.

The 1997-1998 season, which would turn out to be Jordan’s final season with the Bulls, was one of his most memorable. Despite facing multiple hurdles, including injuries to key players and rumors about his future, Jordan led the Bulls to their sixth NBA title in 1998, establishing his position as one of the best players in NBA history.

In 1999, following Michael Jordan’s second retirement from basketball, Ron Harper returned as the Chicago Bulls’ starting shooting guard. Harper, who had been a vital player to the Bulls’ championship teams from 1996 to 1998, once again stepped into a leadership role and gave the club with a senior presence during a transitioning phase. During the lockout-shortened 1999 season, Harper continued to be a regular player for the Bulls. He averaged 11.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, while also serving as a mentor to the team’s younger players.

Despite the club’s troubles on the court, Harper’s professionalism, work ethic, and championship experience were vital to a Bulls team in transition. Harper’s ability to adapt to numerous roles and contribute in multiple ways made him a significant asset to the Bulls during this period of rebuilding. His defensive intensity, basketball IQ, and unselfish play were important in helping the Bulls maintain a competitive edge, even as they faced obstacles in the post-Jordan era.

In 2000, the Chicago Bulls looked to Hersey Hawkins to fill the starting shooting guard position. Hawkins, a seasoned veteran with a reputation as a reliable scorer and excellent defender, was recruited by the Bulls to bring leadership and stability to a young and growing squad. His expertise and basketball IQ made him a significant complement to the Bulls’ team.

During the season, Hawkins performed as a regular presence in the Bulls’ lineup. He averaged 7.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, while also giving the squad with dependable perimeter shooting and excellent defense. Hawkins’ ability to contribute on both sides of the court and his professionalism were significant elements in enabling the Bulls remain competitive during a hard season.

Ron Mercer, a terrific scorer and former first-round draft pick, was expected to provide the Bulls with a much-needed offensive lift. His ability to generate his own shot and score from wherever on the court made him an intriguing choice for a Bulls team in quest of scoring. During the 2000-2001 season, Mercer led the Bulls in scoring, averaging 19.7 points per game, to go along with 3.9 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game.

He rapidly established himself as the go-to scoring option for the Bulls and provided the squad with a much-needed offensive spark. Mercer’s scoring abilities and mobility made him a vital asset to the Bulls’ lineup and helped keep the team competitive during a tough season. While Mercer’s individual performance was remarkable, the Bulls struggled as a team, finishing with a record of 15-67.

Trenton Hassell, recognized for his defensive grit and hustle, was a second-round draft pick by the Bulls in 2001. He rapidly established himself as a reliable perimeter defender and a versatile player capable of guarding many positions. During the 2002 season, Hassell’s first as the Bulls’ starting shooting guard, he averaged 8.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. While his offensive numbers were modest, Hassell’s effect on the defensive end was tremendous. He regularly earned the job of guarding the opposing team’s top perimeter player and was a vital contributor to the Bulls’ defensive efforts.

Despite Hassell’s accomplishments on defense the following year, the Bulls struggled as a team, finishing with a record of 30-52 in the 2003 season. Despite the team’s troubles, Hassell’s defensive prowess and hard ethic were admired by Bulls fans and his teammates alike. Following the 2003 season, Hassell’s time with the Bulls came to an end, as the organization continued to rebuild and reconfigure its squad.

Jamal Crawford, noted for his spectacular ball-handling, scoring prowess, and immediate offense off the bench, was acquired by the Bulls to give a spark on the offensive end. His scoring prowess and ability to generate his own shot made him an enticing addition to a young Bulls squad. During the 2003-2004 season, Crawford led the Bulls in scoring, averaging 17.3 points per game, along with 5.1 assists per game.

He soon established himself as a strong scoring threat and provided the Bulls with a much-needed offensive boost. Crawford’s ability to score in bunches and generate scoring opportunities for his teammates made him a significant asset to the Bulls’ lineup. Despite Crawford’s individual scoring prowess, the Bulls struggled as a team, finishing with a record of 23-59 in the 2004 season.

Kirk Hinrich, a dynamic and cerebral player recognized for his all-around ability, was picked by the Bulls in 2003 and soon established himself as a significant contributor on both sides of the court. His ability to score, distribute the ball, and play strong defense made him an ideal match for the Bulls’ system.

During the 2004-2005 season, Hinrich enjoyed a breakout year as the Bulls’ starting shooting guard. He averaged 15.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, displaying his ability to impact the game in various ways. Hinrich’s leadership, basketball IQ, and competitive attitude were important in helping the Bulls improve their record to 47-35 and return to the playoffs after a six-year absence but they lost in the first round to the Washington Wizards.

From 2006 to 2009, Ben Gordon took over the starting shooting guard position for the Chicago Bulls. Gordon, recognized for his scoring abilities and love for making big jumpers, was picked by the Bulls with the No. 3 overall choice in the 2004 NBA Draft. He soon established himself as a powerful scorer and played a significant role in the Bulls’ return to postseason contention.

During his career as the Bulls’ starting shooting guard, Gordon was a productive scorer, averaging 21.4 points per game during the 2007 season, 18.6 points per game in 2008, and 20.7 points per game in 2009. His ability to generate his own shot, hit down three-pointers, and score in bunches made him a useful offensive weapon for the Bulls.

Gordon’s scoring power was on full display during the 2009 NBA Playoffs, as he scored 24.3 points per game and helped lead the Bulls to a historic first-round series win over the Boston Celtics. His performance in that series, especially a spectacular 42-point outburst in Game 2, reinforced his image as a clutch performer and big-game player.

John Salmons, a seasoned veteran noted for his scoring skills and versatility, was acquired by the Bulls in a mid-season trade with the Sacramento Kings before the end of the 2009 season. His ability to score, generate his own shot, and defend several positions made him a significant addition to the Bulls’ roster.

During the 2009-2010 season, Salmons played a significant role in the Bulls’ pursuit for a playoff spot. He averaged 12.7 per game during his stay with the Bulls, providing the squad with a much-needed offensive boost. Salmons’ ability to score in a number of ways and his penchant for making opportune plays were vital to the Bulls’ success down the stretch.

Keith Bogans was brought in by the Bulls to provide a defensive presence and spacing on the attacking end. His ability to cover opposing teams’ best perimeter players and knock down open jumpers made him a fit for the Bulls’ scheme. During the 2011 season, Bogans started 82 games for the Bulls, averaging 4.4 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game.

While his offensive numbers were low, Bogans’ efforts on the defensive end and his ability to span the floor were praised by Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau and his teammates. He played a role in helping the Bulls finish the regular season with the best record in the NBA at 62-20 alongside MVP Derrick Rose.

In 2012, Ronnie Brewer took over the starting shooting guard position for the Chicago Bulls. Brewer, recognized for his defensive skills, quickness, and high basketball IQ, was signed by the Bulls to add a defensive presence and intensity on both sides of the floor. His ability to guard numerous spots and contribute in diverse ways made him a vital addition to the Bulls’ lineup.

During the lockout-shortened 2012 season, Brewer started 43 games for the Bulls, averaging 6.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game. While his offensive numbers were low, Brewer’s contributions on the defensive end and his ability to move without the ball and generate scoring opportunities for his teammates were recognized by Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau and his teammates.

In 2013, Richard Hamilton, a seasoned veteran with a reputation as a proficient scorer and excellent mid-range shooter, was necessary to give a scoring punch and senior leadership. His ability to score efficiently and create offense for himself and his teammates made him a useful addition to the Bulls’ lineup.

During the 2013 season, Hamilton started 45 games for the Bulls, averaging 9.8 points and 2.4 assists per game on 30.8% from three. While injuries restricted his availability and effectiveness throughout the season, Hamilton’s scoring skills and veteran presence were welcomed by Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau and his teammates. Despite Hamilton’s contributions, the Bulls suffered with injuries and concluded the regular season with a record of 45-37 and were defeated by the Miami Heat.

Jimmy Butler, a rising star recognized for his two-way play, work ethic, and leadership, rapidly established himself as one of the finest shooting guards in the NBA. His ability to score, defend several positions, and make plays for his teammates made him the focal point of the Bulls’ offense and defense. During his tenure as the Bulls’ starting shooting guard, Butler’s game reached new heights.

He averaged 20.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game during the 2015 season, earning his first All-Star selection. Butler’s scoring ability, especially in clutch circumstances, and his defensive skill were vital to the Bulls’ success. In the 2015 playoffs, Butler played a significant role in the Bulls’ first-round series victory against the Milwaukee Bucks, but the team was ultimately defeated by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

Following the 2017 season, Butler was traded by the Bulls to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a blockbuster transaction. Despite his departure, Butler’s contributions to the Bulls’ success throughout his stay as the primary shooting guard make him one of the most beloved and regarded players in recent history.

In 2017, Dwyane Wade took over the starting shooting guard position for the Chicago Bulls. Wade, a future Hall of Famer and three-time NBA champion was signed by the Bulls to bring senior leadership, scoring, and playmaking. His championship experience, scoring ability, and ability to create for himself and his teammates made him a significant addition to the Bulls’ roster.

During the 2016-2017 season, Wade started 59 games for the Bulls, averaging 18.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. Despite his individual success, the Bulls struggled with consistency and chemistry concerns throughout the season, finishing with a record of 41-41 and squeezing into the playoffs as the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference.

In the playoffs, Wade continued to offer scoring and senior leadership for the Bulls. He averaged 15.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in the playoffs, but the Bulls were ultimately defeated by the Boston Celtics in the first round.

From 2018 to 2024, Zach LaVine took over the starting shooting guard position for the Chicago Bulls. LaVine, recognized for his explosive agility, scoring ability, and increased playmaking, rapidly established himself as one of the most exciting scorers in the NBA. His ability to generate his own shot, score at all three levels, and make plays for his teammates made him the focal focus of the Bulls’ attack.

During his tenure as the Bulls’ main shooting guard, LaVine’s skills continued to mature and improve. He averaged 23.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game during the 2018-2019 season, earning his first All-Star selection. LaVine’s scoring abilities, especially from beyond the arc and in movement, and his increased playmaking were vital to the Bulls’ success.

In the 2020 season, LaVine continued to be a scoring machine. He averaged 25.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game and earned his second consecutive All-Star selection. However, the Bulls struggled with consistency and defensive woes, completing the season with a record of 22-43 and failing to make the playoffs.

During the 2021 season, LaVine upped his game to another level. He averaged 27.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game and earned his third consecutive All-Star selection. In the 2021-22 season, LaVine’s scoring ability, better playmaking, and leadership were important in helping the Bulls return to the playoffs for the first time since 2017. However, the Bulls were upset by the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round.

The 2023 and 2024 seasons weren’t quite fantastic for LaVine, since he missed the playoffs in both seasons and only played 25 games in the later year. Even if LaVine continues to be the top shooting guard of the Bulls, his time could be coming to an end as his name is dangled in trade speculations.