Bulls Leave Fans Puzzled Over Jaden Ivey's Absence vs. Raptors

The rookie guard didn't play a single minute in the first half, leaving some Chicago supporters scratching their heads.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 1:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jaden Ivey, who was recently traded to the Chicago Bulls, did not see any playing time in the first half of Thursday's game against the Toronto Raptors. This decision by the Bulls' coaching staff has left some fans confused, as Ivey has been a regular part of the rotation since joining the team two weeks ago.

Why it matters

Ivey was acquired by the Bulls in a trade with the Detroit Pistons and has been averaging over 28 minutes per game with his new team. His absence from the lineup against the Raptors is an unexpected move that has sparked questions and concerns from the Chicago fanbase.

The details

Ivey has played in four games for the Bulls since the trade, averaging 11.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per contest. He was in the starting lineup in his first game with the team, scoring 10 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. However, against the Raptors, Ivey did not see the floor at all in the first half, a decision that has left some fans puzzled given his recent production and role with the team.

  • Ivey was traded to the Bulls two weeks ago.
  • Ivey's last game was against the Boston Celtics on Feb. 11, where he played 29 minutes and scored 10 points.
  • The Bulls played the Raptors on Feb. 20, 2026.

The players

Jaden Ivey

A rookie guard who was recently traded from the Detroit Pistons to the Chicago Bulls.

Kevin Huerter

The veteran guard who was traded from the Bulls to the Pistons in the deal that brought Ivey to Chicago.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“And yet not surprising because, what makes sense in this franchise ?”

— @FrenchBullsFan_

“It's a tough lineup to crack.”

— @BabooBott678

What’s next

The Bulls' coaching staff will likely need to provide an explanation for Ivey's lack of playing time in the first half against the Raptors, as it has left many fans puzzled about the decision.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the challenges young players can face when joining a new team, especially one with an established rotation. The Bulls will need to find ways to integrate Ivey effectively if they want to maximize his potential and keep their fanbase engaged.