Bulls' Tre Jones Shifts into Backup Mode as Coby White Returns from Injury
The Chicago Bulls have undergone a significant shift in their rotation, with point guard Tre Jones being called upon to start multiple games due to injuries to guards Coby White and Josh Giddey. However, with Giddey nearing a return from a strained left hamstring, Jones is expected to revert back to his reserve role.
Jones has grown accustomed to this dynamic in the past, having learned from veteran Spurs player Manu Ginobili, who was an expert at making an impact off the bench. "Listening to guys that have played before me and hearing how you can still have a significant impact, whether starting or not," Jones said of his approach.
While he won't be the primary ball-handler, Jones is focused on supporting his teammates on the court, rather than solely relying on his scoring ability. His numbers this season speak to his adaptability, with 12.3 points per game entering Tuesday's matchup against the Clippers.
In contrast, White has struggled to find his form since returning from a calf injury in August, but he's started to regain his footing over the past few games. With 27 points on Tuesday against the Nets, White matched his season high and demonstrated flashes of his pre-injury prowess.
As the trade deadline approaches, both players are under pressure to perform. For Jones, it means adjusting to a more defined role, while for White, it's about recapturing his form before expiring contracts become a liability. The Bulls' 21-22 record has them hovering in the Play-In Tournament range, with several key injuries and contract situations threatening to derail their season.
Injury Update: Patrick Williams remains out with a sprained right ankle, while Giddey is expected to make his return on Thursday, pending a medical review.
The Chicago Bulls have undergone a significant shift in their rotation, with point guard Tre Jones being called upon to start multiple games due to injuries to guards Coby White and Josh Giddey. However, with Giddey nearing a return from a strained left hamstring, Jones is expected to revert back to his reserve role.
Jones has grown accustomed to this dynamic in the past, having learned from veteran Spurs player Manu Ginobili, who was an expert at making an impact off the bench. "Listening to guys that have played before me and hearing how you can still have a significant impact, whether starting or not," Jones said of his approach.
While he won't be the primary ball-handler, Jones is focused on supporting his teammates on the court, rather than solely relying on his scoring ability. His numbers this season speak to his adaptability, with 12.3 points per game entering Tuesday's matchup against the Clippers.
In contrast, White has struggled to find his form since returning from a calf injury in August, but he's started to regain his footing over the past few games. With 27 points on Tuesday against the Nets, White matched his season high and demonstrated flashes of his pre-injury prowess.
As the trade deadline approaches, both players are under pressure to perform. For Jones, it means adjusting to a more defined role, while for White, it's about recapturing his form before expiring contracts become a liability. The Bulls' 21-22 record has them hovering in the Play-In Tournament range, with several key injuries and contract situations threatening to derail their season.
Injury Update: Patrick Williams remains out with a sprained right ankle, while Giddey is expected to make his return on Thursday, pending a medical review.