The Chicago Bulls have officially ruled DeMar DeRozan out for tonight’s battle with the New Orleans Pelicans.
DeRozan came into the day listed as questionable with a right adductor strain.
DeMar DeRozan is OUT for tonight's game against New Orleans (left adductor – strain). pic.twitter.com/F0i0iC95bv
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) March 24, 2022
While we’ll have to wait to hear from head coach Billy Donovan later today, the hope is that a one-game absence is all DeRozan needs to get back on the floor. The Bulls might also be opting for a particularly precautionary response to any bumps and bruises over the next 10 games as they look toward the playoffs
Still, when we consider how the team has played in recent weeks (and the ongoing seeding race), the Bulls missing their leading score leaves me more uneasy than it should. The team has struggled mightily in road contests this year, and the Pelicans have been a gradually improved basketball team as the season has gone on.
Fortunately, though, this is why the organization has two more All-Stars on the roster. Zach LaVine – who was initially listed as probable – has been upgraded to fully available, so it will be up to him and Vucevic to establish themselves early against a Pelicans D that has allowed the 8th-most points per game over the last nine contests.
For more on just how much the Bulls have struggled away from the United Center this season …
The Chicago Bulls Really Need to Learn How to Play on the Roadhttps://t.co/5wFp0TKNxQ pic.twitter.com/djZ53WVsB7
— Bleacher Nation Bulls (@BN_Bulls) March 24, 2022