Can This 2019 First Round Pick Have a Breakout Season Next Year?
Coby White took a major leap this past season, and the table is set for him to break out in an even bigger way next year. The former seventh-overall pick silenced critics by evolving from a streaky scorer into a poised floor general for the Chicago Bulls. With Lonzo Ball’s status still uncertain and Nikola Vucevic's future in flux, White is poised to take full command of the backcourt. His increased minutes, improved decision-making, and vocal leadership earned him national respect and Most Improved Player consideration. Now, heading into next season, the question is no longer about potential—it’s about fulfillment.
Statistically, White put up career highs nearly across the board: points, assists, shooting percentages, and even defensive efficiency. More importantly, his on-court presence changed games—not just with scoring flurries, but with timely passes, active defense, and calm under pressure. For the first time in his career, he looked like a true point guard rather than a scoring combo guard forced into a playmaker’s role. If he can maintain that level of poise and further expand his offensive package, averaging 20.4 points and four assists per game isn’t out of reach. Chicago’s system finally appears ready to hand him the keys.
Opportunity will be everything next season, and White has already proven he's ready to capitalize on it. His efforts were recently recognized when he earned his first Eastern Conference Player of the Month award, a major milestone in his career and a signal that he’s becoming one of the league’s most dependable young guards. The Bulls are entering a transitional phase with questions surrounding their veteran core, opening a lane for younger talent like White to lead. He’ll need to stay aggressive, continue working on finishing through contact, and keep his assist-to-turnover ratio in check. However, with his work ethic and the progress he’s shown, there’s no reason he can’t take another leap forward.
A true breakout season for Coby White wouldn’t just help his career—it could shift the Bulls’ timeline and rebuild strategy. Rather than chasing a star in free agency or rushing into another short-term fix, Chicago might finally have a lead guard worth building around. Fans have been waiting for someone to energize the backcourt in the post-Rose era, and White may just be that answer. He’s gone from bench spark to legitimate starter, and with more time, he could become an All-Star. Don’t be surprised if next year is the season where Coby White goes from "solid contributor" to "the guy" in Chicago.
