Chicago Bulls fans have had plenty to be happy about lately, and things are about to get even better. The Bulls are one step closer to getting Coby White back on the floor, and it couldn’t come at a better time for a team playing some of its best basketball in years.
According to K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network, “The Windy City Bulls are set to practice at the Advocate Center and the Bulls assigned Coby White and Noa Essengue to G-League for it. White’s ramp-up process begins.” The injury, which occurred during an offseason workout in August, has sidelined White for the first ten games of the 2025–26 season.
Essengue’s assignment, on the other hand, is more of a routine move as the rookie continues his developmental process.
Coby White's ramp-up begins
This practice assignment is solely about getting White some much-needed live reps as he works his way back to NBA speed. While he’s been active in individual workouts and conditioning sessions with the Bulls, he has yet to participate in full-contact scrimmages. Chicago’s staff is taking the smart approach here, making sure White is fully healthy before adding him to a rotation that’s brought the Bulls their best start to a season in years.
Getting him back into live practice situations now suggests that he could be ready to return to NBA action within the next few weeks, which would be a massive boost for a Bulls offense currently shooting nearly 40 percent from three-point range.
Where Coby White fits
When White returns, likely on a minutes restriction, he’ll probably reclaim his spot in the starting lineup at the two, moving Tre Jones to the bench. His ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor as a catch-and-shoot threat makes him a natural fit next to Josh Giddey. This combination will add another layer to a Bulls offense that has already been a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Another positive sign is that White will return to a team with real momentum. Instead of being thrown into a struggling lineup in which he would be asked to carry the load, he will join a confident, balanced group that has already proven it can win, allowing for a smoother transition back into the lineup.
For those speculating how this Bulls team might look at full strength with the return of Coby White, the wait is almost over. Adding this kind of firepower to a team already finding lots of success in that category could give Chicago one of the most dangerous backcourts in the Eastern Conference.