Just days ago, the Bulls appeared to be one of the few NBA teams entering training camp at full strength. However, that optimism was short-lived. At media day, VP of Basketball Operations Artūras Karnišovas said Coby White is dealing with a calf strain and will be limited, adding the team hopes to see him by the end of preseason.
It’s not a crushing blow; White is still on track to play in the preseason, but any injury before opening night is worth monitoring, especially a calf strain. These nagging injuries can escalate into something far worse. Just last postseason, Damian Lillard and Tyrese Haliburton both suffered Achilles tears after dealing with calf strains.
Of course, Lillard and Haliburton’s situations were different—they pushed to return quickly during playoff runs. White, meanwhile, injured his calf in August, giving the 6-foot-5 guard ample time to be ready for the Bulls’ October 22 opener against the Detroit Pistons.
Chicago’s depth will be tested as White recovers from a calf strain
Still, a return to action is never easy in the NBA, especially in Billy Donovan’s fast-paced offense. White emphasized conditioning throughout the offseason, saying, “One thing I really worked on was my body, continuing to get in shape,” at media day. That focus should serve him well as he looks to lead the Bulls’ uptempo attack.
For now, with White sidelined, the Bulls have several options in the backcourt. Ayo Dosunmu and Tre Jones are the most natural guard replacements, though, alongside point guard Josh Giddey, Chicago could also turn to Kevin Huerter or Isaac Okoro, depending on the starting mix. Patrick Williams is another possibility if Donovan wants to go bigger.
The Jones-Giddey pairing proved effective last season, which could prompt Donovan to revisit it in White’s absence. Meanwhile, Dosunmu’s versatility remains valuable—his ability to slot into nearly any role makes him a reliable replacement option.
Whether it’s Huerter or Okoro starting in place of White, each offers a snug fit next to Giddey—one as a spot-up marksman, the other as a rugged perimeter defender. Lineups featuring Huerter and Giddey thrived last season, showcasing an immediate connection. Okoro, meanwhile, has yet to play a game in Chicago, but his low-maintenance style makes him a strong fit for the Bulls’ offense.
Consequently, Donovan will have the chance to test different lineups without White during the preseason. Chicago’s depth will help. While White’s scoring can’t truly be replaced, the Bulls have several strong contenders to step up in his absence.