"He doesn't need to be a stretch-five" – Billy Donovan on the uniqueness of Andre Drummond

The NBA game has evolved through the years from being dominated by incredible big men like Shaquille O’Neal and Tim Duncan to the pace-and-space era of today. However, a few players still possess a rare combination of size, athleticism, and tenacity that make them stand out on the court. One such player is Andre Drummond.

At 6’10” and 279 pounds, Drummond is a force to be reckoned with in the paint. His strength and agility allow him to dominate the boards on both ends of the court, averaging nearly 13 rebounds per game for his career.

With numbers like his, Drummond should have no problem starting for any NBA team. However, with traditional back-to-the-basket big men becoming less and less valuable in today’s game, Drummond has been relegated to playing backup center on the Chicago Bulls. However, Bulls coach Billy Donovan is not discounting the 11-year veteran’s value despite his status as a reserve.

Now a journeyman

After being the main man of the Detroit Pistons for eight seasons, racking up four rebounding titles, two All-Star berths, and a spot on the All-NBA team, the former UConn star has become a journeyman.

Currently on his fifth team in the past four years, Drummond has embraced a reserve role with the Bulls. Nevertheless, he continues to deliver outstanding performances when granted ample playing time, as he demonstrated recently in light of starter Nikola Vucevic's absence due to an adductor injury.

Donovan explained that Drummond’s skills are as potent as ever; it’s just that the game is leaning towards more versatile big men who can shoot from long range, making it difficult for a hefty guy like Drummond to step out and play solid defense.

“Here’s a guy who was an All-Star, a max player, an elite offensive and defensive rebounder for his career, and I think as the game has changed, people have looked at that position as a position that’s not maybe nearly as valuable as shooting or stretch fours, or guys that are two-way guys that can defend and play offense as well,” Donovan said.

Dre has 14 points and 13 rebounds after 3 quarters 💪@AndreDrummond | #SeeRed pic.twitter.com/hxEfSBHNHV
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 9, 2024

Valuable on the Bulls

Donovan defended Drummond, saying everything he does is valuable for the Bulls. His unique skillset works well with what the team is trying to do, which means he doesn’t necessarily need to become a stretch big or a perimeter defender to contribute.

“I also think for him, the things that he does do are valuable on any team. If he can really rim protect, if he can rebound, and then be an elite roller to the basket, there is a place in the game for him. He doesn’t need to be a stretch-five.”

DRUMMOND AGAIN 🔥@NBCSChicago | @AndreDrummond pic.twitter.com/BT63X3mOie
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 9, 2024

Now a journeyman

Valuable on the Bulls

Nikola Vucevic's on Andre Drummond's readiness to play any role that's asked of him