Jevon Carter wanted to show off his abilities and help the team he grew up supporting return to the postseason when he joined with the Chicago Bulls during the summer. The Oak Park, Illinois native was able to relive his collegiate days at WVU on Friday night, which gave the Bulls a boost heading into the NBA play-in tournament. Chicago defeated the Washington Wizards 129-127, primarily because of a double-double of 20 points by Carter.
Carter led the team in minutes played, shot a very effective 8 of 15, and finished with a season-high scoring total. He also contributed a few rebounds and 12 assists. Chicago improved to 39-42 overall after the victory, comfortably holding ninth place in the Eastern Conference and securing home court advantage in the play-in round.
Despite not receiving the playing time he had hoped for this season, Carter has maintained his positive attitude and is committed to doing everything in his power to win. Recently, he stated that he always wants to be prepared when his number is called. “Am I shocked? Indeed,” Carter replied. “Dude, I have no idea. All I want to do is play ball. I’ll be prepared whenever my name is called.” The Bulls have benefited much from Carter in ways that cannot be measured by production. During his October media conference, Carter even mentioned that he felt prepared for the first time in his NBA career to be a veteran leader on a team. Furthermore, Carter’s big game demonstrates that, when needed, he still delivers.
“This team will benefit greatly from what I bring to the table. “I want to win,” Carter firmly declared in response to the question of what he might offer the Bulls. Carter, who is among the team’s more seasoned players, acknowledged his place on a young squad.
The Bulls’ final regular-season game at Madison Square Garden against the New York Knicks is up next for Carter and the team. If the Bulls make it out of the play-in round and into the real playoffs, Carter will then have the opportunity to elevate his homecoming season in Chicago. In the most important games, the Bulls should be wise enough to keep Carter loose and let him cook some more.