10 Greatest Guards In Chicago Bulls History: Is Derrick Rose The Best Since Michael Jordan?

When you think of the Chicago Bulls , the first name that comes to mind is obviously Michael Jordan. He set an impossible standard for guards in Chicago, but the Bulls have had a solid history of backcourt stars, even after MJ left the court. One name that always comes up in those discussions is Derrick Rose, who just announced his retirement after an incredible but injury-riddled career. Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, electrified the city of Chicago, but is he really the best Bulls guard since Jordan? Let’s dive into the top 10 guards in Bulls history and see where Rose ranks among the greats.

1. Michael Jordan

Chicago Bulls: 1984-1998

Stats: 31.5 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 5.4 APG, 2.5 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Achievements: 6x NBA Champion, 5x MVP, 6x Finals MVP, 10x Scoring Champion, 9x All-Defensive First Team, Defensive Player of the Year (1988), 13x All-Star, Hall of Famer

Michael Jordan is the undisputed king of Chicago Bulls basketball. Drafted third overall in 1984, Jordan quickly established himself as a once-in-a-generation talent. His rookie season saw him averaging 28.2 points per game, instantly becoming the face of the franchise. Jordan's unmatched work ethic, competitiveness, and scoring ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and by the late 1980s, he was already leading the league in scoring while elevating the Bulls into perennial playoff contenders.

The early 90s were Jordan's golden years. From 1991 to 1993, he led the Bulls to three consecutive NBA championships, solidifying his place as the best player in the game. Known for his ability to perform in the clutch, Jordan’s iconic moments—like "The Shot" against the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1989 and his flu game in the 1997 Finals—are forever etched in basketball history. In addition to his offensive brilliance, Jordan was a dominant defensive force, winning Defensive Player of the Year in 1988 and making nine All-Defensive First Teams.

Jordan's competitive spirit led him to a second three-peat from 1996 to 1998 after his first retirement and a brief stint in baseball. His return to the Bulls elevated them once again to the top of the league, with the 1995-96 team famously winning 72 games in the regular season, a record at the time. His sixth and final championship in 1998, punctuated by his game-winning shot over Bryon Russell, cemented his legacy as the greatest player to ever wear a Bulls jersey and, for many, the greatest of all time.

Beyond the stats, Jordan’s impact on the Bulls franchise, the NBA, and sports culture worldwide is unparalleled. He turned the Chicago Bulls into a global brand and helped take the NBA to international heights. His competitive drive, leadership, and sheer will to win are qualities that make him the undisputed No. 1 guard in Bulls history, and arguably the best player the sport has ever seen.

2. Derrick Rose

Chicago Bulls: 2008-2016

Stats: 19.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements: NBA MVP (2011), 3x All-Star, 1x All-NBA First Team, Rookie of the Year (2009)

Derrick Rose’s story with the Chicago Bulls is one of brilliance, promise, and heartbreak. Drafted first overall in 2008, Rose quickly became a hometown hero as a Chicago native who was destined to lead the Bulls back to glory. In just his third season, Rose captured the NBA MVP award in 2011, becoming the youngest player in history to do so at just 22 years old, and the only Bulls player in history after Jordan. For that reason only, he earned the second spot. That season, he averaged 25.0 points, 7.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, carrying the Bulls to the best record in the league and to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Rose's combination of speed, explosiveness, and athleticism was something the NBA hadn’t seen before. His ability to get to the rim and finish over bigger defenders made him nearly unstoppable in his early years. His leadership and playmaking revitalized a Bulls franchise that had been searching for an identity since Michael Jordan’s retirement. Rose seemed poised to take Chicago back to championship contention, and many believed he was the best player the Bulls had seen since Jordan himself.

Unfortunately, Rose’s career was derailed by injuries, beginning with a torn ACL in the first round of the 2012 playoffs. What followed were years of surgeries and comebacks, but Rose was never able to regain the MVP form that made him a superstar. Despite these setbacks, Rose’s time in Chicago remains iconic. His heart, determination, and flashes of brilliance left a lasting impact on the Bulls and their fans.

Rose just retired from the NBA after a long, winding journey, but his legacy in Chicago is untouchable. While injuries may have prevented him from achieving the full potential many saw in him, Rose’s MVP season and his role in bringing excitement back to Bulls basketball will forever secure his place as one of the greatest guards in team history.

3. Jerry Sloan

Chicago Bulls: 1966-1976

Stats: 14.7 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 2.6 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements: 2x All-Star, 6x All-Defensive First Team

Jerry Sloan is one of the original legends of the Chicago Bulls and is a crucial figure in the franchise's early history. Sloan was drafted by the Bulls in their inaugural 1966 season and quickly became the heart and soul of the team. Known for his tenacious defense and toughness, Sloan was a two-time All-Star and the leader of the Bulls' defense throughout his 10 seasons with the team.

Sloan's impact on the Bulls goes beyond just his stats. He was a relentless competitor who set the tone for the team's defensive identity, earning six selections to the NBA All-Defensive First Team. He was one of the league's top defensive guards, known for locking down opposing players while also providing steady offense. Sloan was never a flashy player, but his gritty style of play made him one of the most respected players of his era.

The Bulls recognized Sloan’s immense contributions by retiring his No. 4 jersey, making him the first player in franchise history to receive such an honor. His leadership, durability, and ability to impact games on both ends of the floor solidified his place among the Bulls’ all-time greats. While many guards in Bulls history have had more offensive firepower, Sloan’s role as the team’s emotional leader and defensive anchor earns him this high spot on the list.

Sloan’s legacy with the Bulls was further cemented by his long and successful coaching career with the Utah Jazz, but his roots in Chicago are what laid the foundation for his Hall of Fame status. His all-around game and leadership abilities make him deserving of the third spot on this list of the greatest guards in Bulls history.

4. Norm Van Lier

Chicago Bulls: 1971-1978

Stats: 12.2 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 6.9 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements: 3x All-Star, All-NBA Second Team, 3x All-Defensive First Team, 5x All-Defensive Second Team

Norm Van Lier wasn’t just a great player—he was the heart and grit of the Bulls in the 70s. He was tough as nails, always diving for loose balls and making life miserable for opposing guards. Known as one of the best defensive guards of his era, Van Lier earned three All-Star selections and multiple All-Defensive Team nods. His defense? Just relentless. He’d lock up the other team’s best player every night, and that kind of intensity spread throughout the roster.

But Van Lier wasn’t all defense—he was a solid playmaker too. He could dish out almost 7 assists per game, controlling the offense and setting the pace for his team. He wasn’t putting up flashy numbers, but he was the glue that held the team together. Pairing up with Jerry Sloan, they formed one of the scariest defensive backcourts in the league, turning the Bulls into a defensive powerhouse during his time there.

Norm was the emotional leader on the court, bringing that "never-back-down" attitude to every game. He gave the Bulls their identity in the 70s and, honestly, without him, the team wouldn't have had the same edge. His ability to lead, defend, and control the flow of the game is why he earns the fourth spot on this list of Bulls' greatest guards. He may not have the superstar stats, but his impact on the team was undeniable.

5. Zach LaVine

Chicago Bulls: 2017-Present

Stats: 24.2 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 4.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements: 2x NBA All-Star

Zach LaVine has emerged as the Bulls' franchise player in the years following the Derrick Rose era. After being traded from the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2017, as part of the Jimmy Butler deal, LaVine became the centerpiece of Chicago's rebuild. With his elite athleticism, LaVine initially gained fame as a two-time Slam Dunk Contest champion, but his growth as an all-around scorer and playmaker turned him into an All-Star and the face of the Bulls' future.

Since joining Chicago, LaVine has consistently been the team's leading scorer, averaging over 24 points per game while improving his efficiency as a shooter and his playmaking abilities. His deep-range shooting, along with his explosive drives to the rim, made him one of the most dangerous scorers in the league. He earned his first All-Star selection in 2021, followed by another in 2022, solidifying his status as one of the top shooting guards in the NBA.

LaVine’s role as the Bulls' franchise player became even more prominent in the post-Rose era, as the team looked for stability and a star to build around. Though the team has struggled to make a deep playoff run, LaVine has continued to evolve, adding more leadership to his game while maintaining his high-scoring output. His ability to carry the offensive load while also developing as a passer and leader makes him the focal point of Chicago’s plans moving forward.

While his time with the Bulls is still ongoing, and his legacy is still being built, LaVine’s impact on the franchise since his arrival has been undeniable. His scoring averages, plus his role in the Bulls' resurgence to the postseason after Rose and Butler left, deserve a fifth spot, and he could still climb in the rankings. As the Bulls continue to retool around him, there's potential for LaVine to rise even higher from fifth position in the team's all-time guard order, especially if the team can find postseason success in the coming years.

Related: Chicago Bulls Starting Shooting Guards From 1980 To 2024

6. Reggie Theus

Chicago Bulls: 1978-1984

Stats: 18.8 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements: 2x All-Star

Reggie Theus was a spark for the Bulls during the late 70s and early 80s, known for his flair, scoring, and ability to make things happen on offense. He brought a level of excitement and production that made him an All-Star twice while playing for Chicago. Averaging almost 19 points per game, Theus was the primary scorer for the Bulls before the arrival of Michael Jordan. His scoring wasn't just about volume—it was also about flash, as Theus was known for his showtime finishes and confident style of play.

Beyond his scoring, Theus was also an effective playmaker, averaging over 5 assists per game while running the offense. His versatility in playing both point guard and shooting guard made him a valuable asset to the team. Although the Bulls weren't contenders during his era, Theus kept the team competitive and was the focal point of the offense, carrying much of the load.

Reggie's contributions to the Bulls often get overlooked because they came during a pre-Jordan era, but his impact was undeniable. His ability to score and create opportunities for his teammates made him a standout guard, and he remains one of the most entertaining and productive players in the Bulls’ history. That combination of flair and production secures him the sixth spot on this list of the greatest guards in Chicago Bulls history.

7. Kirk Hinrich

Chicago Bulls: 2003-2010, 2012-2016

Stats: 11.4 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements: Bulls All-Time Leader in 3-Pointers Made

Kirk Hinrich might not have been the most high-profile player during his two stints with the Bulls, but his impact on the court was undeniable. Hinrich was the definition of a team-first player who did a bit of everything—defense, scoring, playmaking, and hitting timely shots. His ability to adapt to whatever role the team needed is what made him so valuable over the years. He was the glue guy for the Bulls during some transitional periods, helping lead the team back to playoff relevance in the mid-2000s. Known for his hustle, tough defense, and leadership, Hinrich built a reputation as one of the toughest perimeter defenders in the league.

While Hinrich’s stats don’t jump off the page like some of the other names on this list, he ranks so highly because of his longevity and versatility with the Bulls. He wasn’t the primary scorer like Reggie Theus, but he provided consistent, reliable play across the board for many seasons. His ability to guard the opposing team’s best perimeter players while also being a capable ball-handler and floor general put him in a special category. Hinrich also holds franchise records, including being the Bulls' all-time leader in three-pointers made and ranking second in assists and steals, proving just how much he contributed over time.

Hinrich lands at the seventh spot because, while his overall impact and leadership were huge, his offensive contributions weren’t on the same level as others, who took over games offensively during his peak. Hinrich's defense and overall contributions were more balanced. That being said, Hinrich’s place as one of the most respected and impactful Bulls guards can’t be ignored, and his consistency makes him one of the greats in Chicago history.

8. B.J. Armstrong

Chicago Bulls: 1989-1995, 1999-2000

Stats: 11.0 PPG, 1.8 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements: 3x NBA Champion, 1x All-Star

B.J. Armstrong was a key role player during the Bulls' first three-peat in the early 1990s, earning three championships alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. Armstrong wasn’t the flashiest player on the court, but his sharp shooting, solid playmaking, and calm demeanor made him a reliable presence for Chicago. As the starting point guard for much of the Bulls' championship runs, he played his role perfectly, allowing Jordan and Pippen to thrive while knocking down open shots and facilitating the offense.

Armstrong's standout season came in 1994, the year after Jordan’s first retirement when he stepped up as the Bulls’ leading scorer and earned his first and only All-Star appearance. He averaged 14.8 points that season and was instrumental in keeping the Bulls competitive in Jordan’s absence. Armstrong’s leadership and steady play made him a fan favorite, and his ability to stay composed in high-pressure moments was invaluable during Chicago's title runs.

While Armstrong wasn’t a superstar, his importance to the Bulls' first three championships and his ability to step up in Jordan’s absence make him a significant figure in Bulls history. He ranks eight on this list because of his key contributions during those championship seasons, but his impact wasn’t quite as long-lasting or all-around as players like Kirk Hinrich or Reggie Theus. His role was more specialized, but he played it to perfection.

9. Ben Gordon

Chicago Bulls: 2004-2009

Stats: 18.5 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements: NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2005)

Ben Gordon was one of the most electrifying scorers the Chicago Bulls had in the 2000s. Known for his incredible shooting touch and ability to get hot in a hurry, Gordon was a constant offensive threat during his five years with the Bulls. As a rookie, he won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2005, becoming the first rookie in league history to earn that honor. Gordon’s clutch performances, particularly in late-game situations, earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable scorers in crunch time.

Throughout his time with the Bulls, Gordon consistently averaged around 18 points per game and was a key figure in the team’s return to playoff contention in the mid-2000s. His ability to score from beyond the arc and hit difficult shots under pressure made him a fan favorite. Gordon’s offensive firepower was on full display during the 2009 playoff series against the Boston Celtics, one of the most memorable first-round series in NBA history, where Gordon had multiple 40-point games and helped push the series to seven games.

Gordon ranks ninth on this list because, while his scoring ability was elite, his overall contributions to the team weren’t as well-rounded as some of the guards ranked higher. He was primarily a scoring threat, and while he excelled in that role, players like B.J. Armstrong and Kirk Hinrich contributed more consistently on both ends of the floor. That said, Gordon’s scoring and clutch moments make him one of the most exciting guards in Bulls history.

10. Ron Harper

Chicago Bulls: 1994-1999

Stats: 7.9 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 2.9 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements: 3x NBA Champion

Ron Harper’s impact on the Chicago Bulls often goes under the radar, but his contributions during the team’s second three-peat were crucial. After joining the Bulls in 1994, Harper transformed his game from being a high-flying scorer in his earlier years to becoming a versatile, defensive-minded guard who fit perfectly into Phil Jackson’s triangle offense. Harper’s ability to guard multiple positions made him invaluable, particularly during the Bulls' playoff runs from 1996 to 1998, where they won three consecutive championships.

Though Harper’s numbers with the Bulls don’t pop off the page, his role as a veteran leader and defensive anchor was essential. He allowed the Bulls to switch seamlessly on defense, often guarding the opposing team's best perimeter players. His experience and basketball IQ made him a perfect fit next to Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, as he didn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective. Harper’s willingness to sacrifice his individual stats for team success is a big reason why the Bulls were able to stay dominant during their second dynasty.

Harper ranks tenth because his contributions, while vital, were more about defense, leadership, and fitting into the system rather than offensive firepower. Players like Ben Gordon and B.J. Armstrong provided more offensively, but Harper’s value on the defensive end and his championship pedigree make him a worthy addition to the top 10. His role in helping secure three championships puts him ahead of many other guards in Bulls history.

Honorable Mention

John Paxson

Chicago Bulls: 1985-1994

Stats: 7.2 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 3.6 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements: 3x NBA Champion

John Paxson was never the flashiest player on the Bulls, but his clutch shooting and steady hand at point guard made him an invaluable piece of Chicago's first three-peat in the 1990s. Paxson was known for his basketball IQ, his ability to hit open shots, and his calmness in high-pressure situations. His most iconic moment came in Game 6 of the 1993 NBA Finals when he hit the series-clinching three-pointer to give the Bulls their third straight championship.

Though Paxson’s stats don’t leap off the page, his role as the floor general and reliable shooter made him a perfect fit in Phil Jackson’s triangle offense. His shooting percentages, especially from beyond the arc, were impressive, and his decision-making on the floor helped the Bulls' offense run smoothly. Paxson's unselfishness allowed him to complement Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen without needing to dominate the ball, which made him an ideal teammate during the Bulls' dynasty.

Paxson earns the honorable mention because of his contributions during Chicago’s first three championships and his knack for coming through in big moments. While he didn’t have the career accolades or individual scoring ability of some of the other guards, his clutch shooting and leadership in key moments give him the edge over others. His name will forever be etched in Bulls history for delivering one of the franchise’s most memorable shots.

Related: The Chicago Bulls History: Every Award Their Players And Coaches Have Won