The Detroit Pistons and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff have maintained optimism regarding Jaden Ivey’s recovery from the severe leg injury he sustained last season. The focal question now is not whether he will recover, but rather what the timeline for his full return will be. Recent news has raised concerns, as the Chicago Bulls—who acquired Ivey at the trade deadline—have decided to shut him down for at least two weeks after evaluating his performance since joining the team.
Bickerstaff expressed confidence in Ivey’s recovery, highlighting the importance of trust in one’s abilities following such an injury, especially for an explosive athlete. “We expected a full recovery, but the timing you never know,” Bickerstaff said. “And then the part for him is believing and trusting in it.” Unfortunately, it appears that regaining this trust has been a challenge for Ivey.
In his initial 30 games before the injury last season, Ivey averaged 17.6 points per game with a shooting percentage just under 41% from three-point range. However, in his return this season, he has seen a decline, managing only 8.2 points while shooting 37% from beyond the arc in 17 minutes of play per game. Since joining the Bulls, he struggled during his first four outings, demonstrating limited explosiveness on the court, which prompted speculation about his adjustment to his new team.
Ivey’s absence during the game against Toronto sparked controversy. He noted that “old J.I. is dead” following the decision, though Bulls coach Billy Donovan clarified that the coaching staff had previously agreed Ivey would sit out to address knee soreness. “Certainly, it was our decision coaching-staff wise that he did not play, but I think medical guys saw that he was not moving great,” Donovan explained. The immediate plan is for Ivey to engage in strengthening exercises to fortify the muscles around his knee before undergoing a reevaluation after two weeks.
In other team news, the Bulls announced that Zach Collins would miss the remainder of the season due to a toe injury that requires surgery. Collins, who struggled with injuries this season and only appeared in 10 games, is facing free agency. Despite this, Donovan expressed hope for Collins’ future with the team, citing his talent and character.
On a positive note for the Pistons, they received some reinforcements as Jalen Duren returned from a two-game suspension related to a previous altercation, although they remain without Isaiah Stewart, who is suspended for seven games for his involvement. As the Pistons continue to lead the Eastern Conference, the hope remains that Ivey’s recovery process will soon allow him to contribute once again.