On Tuesday, the Chicago Bulls received both good and bad news. The good news is that Coby White, who's out with a calf injury, is expected to return soon, per Will Gottlieb of CHGO Bulls.
According to coach Billy Donovan, White has been taking part in running and conditioning drills. However, White will be given additional time to ensure that he is up to par.
“The hope is, in a couple of weeks, he’ll play,” Donovan said.
On the flip side, the Bulls were dealt a blow when Ayo Dosunmu will be out Tuesday against the Philadelphia 76ers, per Drew Stevens of The Bigs Media. Originally, Dosunmu was listed as questionable due to a contusion in his left quad. Last Sunday, Dosunmu didn't play on the road against the New York Knicks. Dosunmu is off to a strong start, averaging 16.2 points per game.
In August, White injured his calf during a workout. Prior to the preseason, White was expected to be out at the beginning, which was the case. During his absence, the Bulls are off to a 5-1 start. Their 5-0 start was their best since the 1996-1997 championship season, in which they started 12-0.
Last season, White achieved his best season in Chicago. Altogether, he averaged 20.4 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.7 rebounds. Presently, White is finishing his third and final year of the $36 million contract he signed in 2023. Afterward, he will become an unrestricted free agent.
Chicago will be glad when Coby White returns.
As a potent offensive presence, White has become the focal point of the Bulls since 2019. Additionally, he has become a fan favorite for his talent and his personality. As a result, upon his return, he will be given a warm reception by his teammates and the fans —putting it lightly.
Indeed, the Bulls are playing exceptionally well at the outset without him. But when he comes back, the Chicago backcourt will be complete and, in essence, more potent. White plus Josh Giddey plus Matas Buzelis is a pretty good combination, especially considering how well they are playing.
The concern will be how to bring White back into the fold and continue the momentum. In other words, whether he will be sluggish at first, which could disrupt the flow. However, given how well Giddey, Buzelis, and others have been playing, they could take the pressure off White and let him ease back in.
Regardless of how it all pans out, the Bulls will be back to normal with White back.
