Funny trajectory for Ayo Dosunmu in Chicago. Excellent surprise from the Bulls in his rookie year, to the point of becoming the starting leader of the group after the injury of Lonzo Ballon the other hand, he disappointed in his second campaign, despite statistics that were ultimately quite similar.
Extended by the club, he still seemed to have moved back in the club's hierarchy, even if Lonzo Ball is still away from the field. Particularly with the arrival of Jevon Carter.
This was indeed the case, until Zach LaVine joined the infirmary. The opportunity for Ayo Dosunmu to show Billy Donovan that he is still this dynamic player who delighted the fans during his debut.
“I take my hat off to him, simply for his character”, explains the coach to NBC Sports. “He is ultra competitive. He stops at nothing, he knows what he needs to improve, he handles defensive challenges, he is ready to play any role asked of him. He has great confidence in himself, and that's normal. He is a hard worker. Winning is a priority for him. And I think his attitude is always: Whatever minutes I'm given, I'm going to make the most of them and try to do my best to help the team. »
Better tempo management
With 14 points, 6 assists, 6 rebounds and 3 steals against the Bucks, then 15 points, 3 assists and 2 steals against the Pelicans, Chicago's first winning streak this season, Ayo Dosunmu brought rhythm to the Bulls. Even if Billy Donovan rightly notes that it is his management of tempo that is improving.
“Where he does a really good job is he's a lot more thoughtful and patient in pick-and-roll and play-reading situations. He brings the ball up, but last year he was playing always very quickly. Now it speeds up, then it slows down, then it speeds up again. Its rhythm changes. He reads the field. He sets things up a lot better and gives himself a chance to attack the rim better, which is a good thing. »
Progress at the heart of a complicated development which delights the coach.
“I am very happy with his progress. I know that as difficult as last year was for him, it may have been the best thing for his development.”concludes Billy Donovan. “I don’t think many players’ careers are on a permanent upward trajectory. There are ups and downs. »
