It’s been over a week since the Chicago Bulls last played basketball—a 124–105 loss to the Boston Celtics that extended their losing streak to six games, the third-longest active skid in the NBA. With the All-Star break taking a chunk out of February’s schedule, Chicago remains winless this month. But there’s reason for optimism, as multiple Bulls are expected to return from injury.
Josh Giddey and Tre Jones are back for the Bulls
Not only did the All-Star break extend the Bulls’ losing streak, but it also provided valuable recovery time for Josh Giddey and Tre Jones. Sidelined since January 28 and 22, respectively, both guards are now listed as probable for Chicago’s matchup against the Toronto Raptors.
Unlike Jones, Giddey initially suffered his hamstring injury in late December. The Aussie returned on January 22 but was shut down again after four appearances. After practicing fully over the past few days, he’s expected to rejoin the lineup barring any setbacks.
Giddey and Jones aren’t the only Bulls set to return since the All-Star break. Jalen Smith, who missed Chicago’s previous three games with a calf strain, is also expected to suit up against the Raptors. Smith has been in and out of the lineup since late January, but the extended break should allow him to resume his starting role at center.
One Bull still without a timetable is Zach Collins. The big man has been sidelined since December 27 with a sprained first toe. While the injury was not initially viewed as serious, Collins has spent well over a month in a walking boot. The most recent update, provided in late January, indicated he would be re-evaluated in approximately two weeks. That evaluation should offer more clarity on his potential return this season.
Toronto nearly fully healthy
The Raptors, meanwhile, are among the healthier teams in the NBA. Toronto lists just two players on its injury report: Sandro Mamukelashvili and Collin Murray-Boyles, both of whom are dealing with minor issues. Mamukelashvili did not miss any time prior to the All-Star break but was later added to the report with a rib contusion. Murray-Boyles missed Toronto’s final game before the break, though he is listed as probable for the matchup against Chicago.
Full injury report for Chicago Bulls vs Toronto Raptors
The complete injury report for tonight's game is as follows:
Chicago Bulls
Out: Zach Collins (Right 1st Toe Sprain), Noa Essengue (Left Shoulder Surgery).
Probable: Josh Giddey (Left Hamstring Strain), Tre Jones (Left Hamstring Strain), Jalen Smith (Right Calf Strain).
Toronto Raptors
Questionable: Sandro Mamukelashvili (Right Rib Contusion).
Probable: Collin Murray-Boyles (Left Thumb Sprain).