NEWSLETTER
The latest injury report lists both Alex Caruso and Javonte Green as questionable for tonight’s meeting with the Lakers.
Caruso was forced to miss the Bulls’ last matchup with the Clippers due to lingering issues with his foot. His teammates went on to allow the Clippers to shoot just under 60 percent from the field and knock down 20 3-pointers. While there are no guarantees that his presence would have changed the outcome of the game, it’s hard not to think he could have provided a competitive boost on the defensive end.
Speaking of which, Caruso’s efforts were pivotal in the Bulls’ Monday night victory over this same Lakers team. He drew offensive fouls on both LeBron James and Anthony Davis while helping force the Lakers into 18 turnovers. Having his defensive IQ on the floor tonight could truly prove to be the difference between winning and losing. And the Bulls sure hope for the former as they try to make one last push to surpass the Raptors and Hawks in the Play-In standings.
As for Green, he has yet to appear in a game after playing roughly 15 minutes combined in the Bulls’ two games against Philly. The fact he wasn’t able to stay on the floor is undoubtedly worrisome when we consider he’s trying to return from mid-season knee surgery, but the Bulls do at least have him listed as “questionable” tonight.
Green’s exact role in the rotation is a tad unclear right now, but there is no question that having him available would be a tremendous help to finish out this season. He provides the Bulls without another superb athlete who can guard multiple positions and help run in transition. Let’s hope we can see him return tonight and find a way to stay on the floor.
