Season review
Reggie Bullock has started the season very slowly, as he has done throughout his career. Bullock’s downturn lasted a little longer than normal, as he shot just 28.7 percent from 3-point range through Dec. 31. But since Jan. 1, he’s shooting 39.2 percent from 3-point range, and the calendar continues to affect his shooting percentage. This highlights the pinnacle of my brief blogging experience, as Jason Kidd actually mentioned that article in his pregame press conference.
Bullock provided an excellent defense at all times, finishing the season averaging 39.3 minutes per game throughout the playoffs. In those few minutes, he averaged 10.6 points and shot 39.7 percent from 3-point range. The shooting percentage is high this time, as he averaged 7.3 3-pointers per game in the playoffs.
Perhaps the most impressive part of Bullock’s playoffs is the sheer distance he has played every game. Among players who didn’t make the Finals, Bullock trailed only teammate Dorian Finney-Smith in total runs throughout the playoffs. They rank first and second among all playoff players in total distance through the conference finals. The Mavericks couldn’t get them off the court as the defense completely collapsed.
best game
With the stakes in mind, Game 6 against the Phoenix Suns is a win here. Bullock had 19 points, seven rebounds and 5-of-11 3-pointers while teaming up with Fineey-Smith to do a terrific job defending Chris Paul and Devin Booker.
Honorable mention status continues throughout February. That month, Bullock averaged 15.8 points on a 67.9 true shooting percentage. He shot 45.2 percent from 73 3-pointers in eight games, resulting in an incredible true shooting percentage.
contract status
Bullock will play in the second year of this season or the mid-level exception he signed last season. He will earn $10,012,800 this season. He would then make $10,489,600 next season, though only $5,451,200 is guaranteed.
Looking to the future
Bullock will remain an integral part of the Mavs. He’s the team’s best pure perimeter defender and top three-point shooter. As he showed in the playoffs, he’s the perfect compliment to Luka Doncic. The Mavericks will need to add another player of similar ability to reduce the workload for Bullock and Finney-Smith.
Grade: B+
Bullock wasn’t the star that kept him from getting an A. But after a slow start, he did absolutely everything he was asked to do. He has performed as well as anyone on the team when it comes to carrying out the responsibilities that have been asked of him.