In a significant development for the Chicago Bulls, guard Josh Giddey is set to commence his ramp-up phase this week following a hamstring injury.
Coach Billy Donovan emphasized, "This will be a pivotal week for him."
Giddey has been sidelined since he strained his hamstring during a game against the Wolves on December 29. This week marks a crucial period as the Bulls are gearing up for two home games against the Nets, scheduled for Friday and Sunday. Due to the intensity of these games, there will be limited practice opportunities for Giddey. Nevertheless, he has been actively sprinting and making sharp cuts on the court, signaling progress in his recovery.
Given that he is healing from a soft-tissue injury, the team is adopting a careful approach to reintroduce him into basketball activities. They will closely observe Giddey for any signs of discomfort or tightness as he ramps up his training.
Although Donovan did not provide a specific timeline for Giddey’s return, he expressed optimism that if all goes well this week, Giddey could be back in action as soon as the following week. "I would guess he’ll be back relatively soon after that, assuming everything progresses smoothly this week," Donovan stated. "However, I’m hesitant to make any guarantees since we haven’t fully pushed him yet. But the plan is in place, and he has been cleared to begin this phase."
The Bulls are eager for Giddey’s return, as they have missed his playmaking skills and improved shooting. Since his absence, the team has posted a record of 3-4, with their offense ranking 20th in the NBA during that stretch, averaging just 113.3 points per game.
Another standout player has been center Jalen Smith, who has made a significant impact in his second season with the Bulls. The team's strategy of utilizing two big men has allowed Smith's versatility to shine through, particularly in creating space on the floor for his teammates to drive.
While Smith may not be regarded as an elite shot-blocker—his block percentage stands at 2.2, placing him in the 65th percentile—it’s his presence at the rim that acts as a deterrent. As of Wednesday, Smith boasted an impressive +12.9 on-off differential, the highest on the team.
Donovan noted, "What stands out about Smith is not just his shot-making ability but also his overall impact on the game. Even though he struggled with his three-point shooting in the recent game against Houston, he was effective around the basket. Smith isn’t afraid to dive into physical play; he actively protects the rim and competes vigorously on the boards. His contributions may not always be glamorous, but his competitive spirit is commendable, and his shot-blocking alongside Nikola Vucevic has proven beneficial for us."
In terms of injuries, center Zach Collins is unlikely to see action before the All-Star break due to a toe sprain. Donovan shared that Collins had a consultation on Wednesday and will remain in a boot for an additional two weeks before being reassessed. Both Collins and the medical team are focused on preserving his calf strength during this recovery period. "He needs to complete this two-week phase first," Donovan explained.
Additionally, forward Julian Phillips missed the game on Wednesday due to a wrist issue.
Billy Donovan recognizes the need for talent enhancement within the roster. In the meantime, he is tasked with evaluating the performance of the current Bulls players as preparations for the trade deadline on February 5 intensify.
Moreover, the recent rescheduling of a game against the Heat has disrupted the team’s optimistic plans regarding Coby White’s playing time. Both the coaching staff and team management are exercising caution as they navigate White’s ongoing calf concerns.
The NBA announced that the postponed game originally scheduled for January 8, due to condensation on the court, will now take place on January 29. This leaves the Bulls with a challenging schedule ahead—four games in five nights and nine in 15 days leading up to the trade deadline.
