Darrell Walker joined the Bulls during the 1992-93 NBA season, a Chicago returning to play for his hometown team. He began his career in 1983, becoming the 12th overall selection by the New York Knicks. He then had stints in Denver, Washington, and finally, in 1991, he was traded to the hated Detroit Pistons. Walker receives no penalty for being a part of the Pistons for three reasons. First, by 1991, their dynasty had crumbled under the mighty power of the Bulls. Second, he had no choice in the matter as he was traded against his will. And finally, he may have been a sleeper cell, as during the 9 games he played in the 1992-93 season, he shot 15% from the field. Mad respect for Darrell Walker on that one.
After being released in November of 1992, the Bulls decided to kick the tires on him by giving him a 10-day contract in January of 1993. Although he struggled early on, the Bulls gave him a second 10-day contract. But he started to come around with contributions off the bench and the Bulls extended his contract through the end of the season. His best game during that regular season was against the Utah Jazz where he was 3-4 from the field with 8 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds, a steal, and zero turnovers.
In the playoffs, he played in nine games, including three in the Finals. He did not exactly serve as a good luck charm as the Bulls lost two of those three games he played in during the Finals. Still, he provided competent play for short periods of time which was all his role was ever meant to be.
Incredibly, there is a highlight video of Darrell Walker's time with the Bulls.
Okay, so it was basically only a single play, but he not only tied up 6'10" Danny Manning, he then dominated him in the tip-off to help the Bulls hold on to a two-point victory.
He would retire after the season, because it really doesn't get any better than winning a title with your hometown team. After his playing career, he would go into coaching with short head coaching stints with both the Toronto Raptors and Washington Wizards. The man known as the Junkyard Dog was unable to grab a ring as a coach, but I am certain that he was able to Grab Them Cakes.
Previous Entries:
No comments:
Post a Comment