Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler out of action for 3-6 weeks
Despite LeBron James heading home and signing with the Cleveland Cavaliers this summer when it was time for the camps to begin, the Chicago Bulls had the complete package. They had everything – physical big men, shooters, defenders and point guards. The Eastern Finals were expected to a showdown between the Bulls and the Cavs, but that has changed in the matter of weeks.
First Derrick Rose was ruled out of action for 4-6 weeks due to a torn meniscus and now the team’s shooting guard Jimmy Butler is ruled out with an elbow injury for 4-6 weeks. The Bulls confirmed yesterday as to the duration of his absence after an MRI showed a Grade 2/3 ulnar ligament sprain and small bone impaction to the left elbow.
Right after his rookie season, Butler came into existence for his defense and was easily among the top 5 one-on-one perimeter defenders in the league. This season he made a huge upgrade to his offensive game which saw him earn his first All-Star selection. Butler is now among the top 5 two-way players in the league and is a key player to the Bulls’ chances of winning a NBA title.
He is averaging a team-high 20.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists and will be missed during the Bulls’ crucial run heading towards the Playoffs.