Goran Dragic making an imprint as the Chicago Bulls' bench leader

Since coming over in the offseason, veteran guard Goran Dragic has been a revelation for the Bulls. The battle-tested point guard has taken on a leadership role with the team's second unit and helped Chicago get off to a 3-2 start.

Rise of the Dragon

Youth is outstanding in the NBA. But sometimes, you need a little veteran leadership to help guide young players through the ups and downs of an 82-game season. That's where Dragic comes in for the Chicago Bulls. The 36-year-old is no stranger to winning. He was a key piece on the Miami Heat team that went to the NBA Finals in 2020 and has virtually seen it all in his 14 years in the Association.

With the Bulls starting sophomore guard Ayo Dosunmu in place of the recovering Lonzo Ball, Dragic has embraced a leadership role with the team's bench unit. And he's been spectacular, averaging 8.6 points and 4.2 assists in just 17 minutes per game.

"I'm just reading the game. Sometimes you just have to see the floor, read the situation and make the right play. I'm really happy how we've played the last two games. Our main emphasis was sharing the ball, keep moving and not waste possessions, and so far, so good. I feel we can eliminate some turnovers and be even better," said Dragic after he helped spark the Bulls to a 124-109 win over the Indiana Pacers.

Dragic's pinpoint passing has been on full display this season. The Slovenian has racked up 21 dimes -- with just four turnovers -- including some spectacular ones like this fastbreak alley-oop to Javonte Green.

PUT HIM IN THE DUNK CONTEST 🤯 pic.twitter.com/hNAPMzHgrd
— Bulls Talk (@NBCSBulls) October 27, 2022

One crafty cat

Zach LaVine knows what Dragic is all about, owing to their previous battles in seasons past. The two-time All-Star has nothing but good things to say about his new teammate.

"I used to hate playing against him because I know how crafty and savvy he is. Knows how to run the team. Gets downhill. He creates two on the ball and always makes the right play. When we get in, I tell him, 'I'll get to that corner. Look for me," shared LaVine.

The vet @Goran_Dragic makes a big difference out there pic.twitter.com/0uySDgydEY
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 27, 2022

It's a long season, and the Bulls will need all the help they can get if they want to make some noise. With Dragic in the mix, don't be surprised if they find themselves in the thick of things come April.