It wasn’t supposed to go this way for the Bulls.
Heading into the season, most thought they would be able to deal from their big man riches to acquire back court help by the trade deadline. Right now however, they’re simply struggling to find enough healthy bodies.
First, down went Joakim Noah, who dislocated his shoulder and was lost for the season. Noah had fallen somewhat out of favor with the Bulls this season, being relegated to a bench role (and not adjusting to it well). To his credit, Noah is saying all the right things, including reiterating a desire to return to the team next season.
Now, down goes Mirotić. The multi-dimensional forward underwent an emergency appendectomy and should return after the All-Star break.
Look for promising rookie Bobby Portis to assume the bulk of the minutes that have opened up.
Portis only got into 4 of the team’s first 24 games, but with Pau Gasol getting a night off, he made the most of an opportunity against the Knicks on December 19th, scoring 20 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Since then he’s found a slightly larger role in the rotation.
- TAGS
- Bobby Portis
- Chicago Bulls
- Joakim Noah
- Nikola Mirotić
- Pau Gasol
