Rescheduled Heat Game Puts Coby White’s Availability in Doubt for Late-January Back-to-Back
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The Chicago Bulls’ decision-making on guard Coby White has been complicated by last week’s postponed matchup with Miami, which was moved to January 29. The new date creates an additional back-to-back set and increases the chances White will be held out of one of those games, head coach Billy Donovan told reporters.
“If the Miami game had happened last week, he would have played all the way through the All-Star break,” Donovan said. “Now that the back-to-back is there and the end of January is more condensed, we have to look at it. I’m not saying he’s playing, I’m not saying he’s not, but that’s a concern.” Without the rescheduling, the Bulls’ next back-to-back would not have arrived until March, Donovan added.
Injury management and trade implications
White, 26, is returning from a right calf strain, and the Bulls are proceeding cautiously. The club also wants to keep him healthy through the February 5 trade deadline; his $12.9 million expiring contract is considered a valuable asset. Although the Minnesota Timberwolves previously showed interest, talks have cooled, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Collins’ sprained toe requires further evaluation
Reserve center Zach Collins met with multiple specialists Tuesday to decide on a treatment plan for a sprained toe. Donovan said doctors have kept Collins in a walking boot but have not determined how long it will remain on. The coaching staff is concerned the prolonged immobilization could lead to calf weakness and extended rehab time.
Huerter thriving off the bench
Kevin Huerter, acquired at last season’s trade deadline, has produced better numbers as a sixth man than he did as a starter. “I think I’ve been really effective at times coming off the bench,” Huerter said, noting that his minutes and responsibilities stay the same regardless of role due to the Bulls’ substitution patterns.
Dosunmu viewed as valuable internally
Guard Ayo Dosunmu is drawing outside attention because of his $7.5 million expiring deal, but the Bulls are reluctant to move the fifth-year player without a significant return, the Chicago Tribune reported.
Source: Hoops Rumors
