TITLE: Bulls Bring Back Yuki Kawamura After Blood Clot; Central Division Updates
SLUG: bulls-bring-back-kawamura-central-division-updates
CONTENT:
The Chicago Bulls have re-signed two-way guard Yuki Kawamura, three months after a blood clot in his lower right leg led to his release in October, head coach Billy Donovan confirmed on Wednesday.
Donovan said the team always planned to bring Kawamura back once doctors cleared him. The 5’8″ guard remained in Chicago throughout his recovery, working with team medical personnel and participating in non-contact drills until receiving full clearance.
“He’s worked really, really hard,” Donovan noted. “I’m happy for him because when you have something like that, you don’t know what the future looks like.”
Several current NBA players—among them Victor Wembanyama, Ausar Thompson, and Brandon Ingram—have returned from blood clots in recent seasons. Wizards forward Cam Whitmore is currently sidelined by a clot in his shoulder.
Jalen Smith’s Value to Chicago
Forward Jalen Smith has proven critical to the Bulls’ success. Chicago is 17-13 when he plays and 0-7 when he sits, according to RG.org. Smith’s +3.5 net rating leads the roster. “He doesn’t mind playing either center or power forward—he just wants to play,” Donovan said last month.
Pistons Favor Continuity
At 28-9, the Detroit Pistons hold a four-game cushion atop the Eastern Conference. The Detroit Free Press reports the club prefers roster stability over a major trade deadline move, though a $14 million traded player exception could facilitate a smaller addition. Potential targets mentioned include Sam Hauser, Bobby Portis, Georges Niang, and rookie Zaccharie Risacher.
Myles Turner Adjusting in Milwaukee
Center Myles Turner, now in his first season with the Milwaukee Bucks after a decade in Indiana, has seen statistical drops but told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel he views discomfort as an opportunity. “True growth happens in uncomfortable moments,” Turner said. “I’m rolling with the punches.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
