PHOENIX — Newly acquired guard Collin Sexton logged 38 minutes and poured in 30 points Thursday night, leading the Chicago Bulls to an unexpected road victory over the Suns. The performance underscored the larger-than-anticipated role the 25-year-old has assumed since arriving in last month’s trade.
“Definitely very appreciative,” Sexton said after the win. “I always tell myself to be where my feet are and focus on the now. I appreciate the team and the organization giving me the opportunity and trusting me down the stretch with the ball, but also to make plays for others.”
Sexton carries a nearly $19 million expiring contract on a roster already crowded with guards, leaving his long-term future in Chicago uncertain. Still, he stressed that his priority is helping the Bulls win games and strengthening his relationship with head coach Billy Donovan, who has dealt with the recent deaths of his father and mother-in-law.
“I appreciate Coach,” Sexton said. “He’s had a lot going on, and my family has been praying for him.”
Injury updates and roster notes
• Guard Jaden Ivey did not join the Bulls on their current 10-day road trip and continues rehabilitation on his left knee. Donovan said medical staff want to see additional strength gains before clearing Ivey, who has appeared in only four games since being acquired from Detroit at the deadline and is headed for restricted free agency this summer.
• Rookie Australian center Lachlan Olbrich, signed to a two-way deal last offseason, has appeared in 21 games with limited minutes. “I feel like I built a really strong foundation,” Olbrich said, calling his first NBA campaign “a massive learning experience.”
• Five rotation players were out Thursday, but Donovan expects Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis and Patrick Williams to be available Sunday in Sacramento. Jalen Smith (calf strain) and Anfernee Simons (left hand) remain sidelined without a timetable for return.
The Bulls have five weeks left in the regular season as they balance player development, looming contract decisions and an injury-thinned lineup.
Source: Hoops Rumors
