Several Eastern Conference clubs provided updates on key absences and preparation plans as the NBA schedule moves toward mid-week matchups.
Bulls
Chicago reported modest progress on the injury front Sunday. Isaac Okoro, Jalen Smith and Kevin Huerter were able to take part in light on-court activity before the game, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. The Bulls are 1-7 when Okoro is unavailable, and head coach Billy Donovan said the club is feeling the absence of its top perimeter defender.
“He has made progress and has felt better, but he still feels it there,” Donovan explained, noting that some symptoms have eased. “The hardest part for me is the ramp-up. Even if they’re feeling really good, I don’t know if the medical guys are going to say, ‘OK, you’re fine,’ and throw them right back into a game.”
The organization continues to take a cautious stance while losses mount.
Pacers
Starter Aaron Nesmith has not played since Nov. 13 because of a left MCL sprain, and head coach Rick Carlisle told reporters there is still no timetable for his return. “It’s gonna be a while—time will tell,” Carlisle said, per the Indianapolis Star.
There was better news on two other backcourt players. Quenton Jackson (hamstring strain) could be available later this week, and rookie second-round pick Kam Jones is ramping up after a back problem; his first action is expected with the G League’s Noblesville Boom.
In the frontcourt, Carlisle is using a three-man rotation of Jay Huff, Isaiah Jackson and Tony Bradley after losing Myles Turner in free agency. “Doesn’t matter who starts,” the coach said. “It’s a tag-team thing.”
Bucks
Milwaukee head coach Doc Rivers granted the team two full days off following a recent back-to-back, reports The Athletic. The break will be followed by two intensive practice sessions leading into Thursday’s home meeting with Boston.
Forward Kyle Kuzma underscored the importance of the upcoming stretch. “I think it’s a very pivotal time for us,” he said. “It’s sink or swim. We have to treat it like that.”
The Bulls’ cautious ramp-up, the Pacers’ uncertain timeline for Nesmith and the Bucks’ focused preparation all highlight the varying approaches teams are taking as the season progresses.
Source: Hoops Wire
