Andre Drummond steps up in what could be his last game in a Chicago Bulls jersey

If that was indeed Andre’s last game as a Bull, what a performance it was.

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With the Minnesota Timberwolves’ twin-tower combination of Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns coming to the United Center, the Chicago Bulls couldn’t make do with their regular starting five that featured DeMar DeRozan at the four as that lineup would most likely get eviscerated.

Fortunately for Chicago, they had a 6-foot-10 former All-Star waiting to get his number called up to join the starters. Andre Drummond, who has played a reserve role for the Bulls since signing with the team in 2022, made the most of his opportunity and showed why he still deserves to be a starter in this league.

Drummond dominated the paint on both ends of the court, finishing with 16 points, 16 rebounds, and four blocks. He also provided much-needed size and physicality against Gobert and Towns, limiting their impact on the game.

Last game as a Bull

Drummond’s name has been mentioned in many trade rumors lately. Playing in the last year of his contract and showing he still has plenty left in the tank, it’s no surprise that contenders are interested in acquiring the veteran big man.

But before he potentially moves on to another team, Drummond wanted to leave a lasting impression on Chicago and its fans. And he did just that with his performance against two of the best big men in the league.

Andre Drummond deep in his celebration bag 👀🔴 pic.twitter.com/ODxXPH6mWJ

— Taco Trey Kerby (@treykerby) February 7, 2024

"I control what I can control," Drummond said when asked about his feelings regarding the upcoming trade deadline.

"I’ve been doing this for 12 years. There’s nothing I can do about it. If it happens, it happens. If it doesn’t, great. Either way, I’m going to continue to come in and do my job on a daily basis."

Asked what he wants to happen, Drummond uttered a similar "control what he can control" answer.

Pairing with Vooch

Drummond and Vucevic have built quite the relationship in their time with the Bulls. Although the two are familiar with one another owing to many battles in the Eastern Conference, they have formed a formidable partnership on and off the court. Bulls coach Billy Donovan has not utilized their combination often but has been more receptive to the idea lately.

"It’s been a long time coming. I’ve been waiting for this moment. I’m looking forward to playing alongside him more," Drummond said.

"They gotta pick their poison. Let me beat you up in the paint or he can shoot the 3 or beat you up in the paint. It’s a great duo."

Vucevic also had his way against Minnesota’s defense, racking up 24 points, six rebounds, and four blocks.

"As the game went on, we played a lot better together," Vooch said.

"When the game first started, we were a little stagnant trying to make it work."

Andre Drummond is drawing trade interest from four championship contenders