Bulls Remain Uncertain on Jaden Ivey's Return Timeline

The Chicago Bulls are taking a cautious approach with the injured guard acquired at the trade deadline.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:52pm

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The Chicago Bulls don't have a clear timeline for when newly acquired guard Jaden Ivey will return to the court. Ivey, who was traded to the Bulls from the Detroit Pistons in February, has missed the last 13 games due to a knee injury. Bulls head coach Billy Donovan says the team is focused on Ivey regaining his strength and not rushing him back before he's fully healthy, though they remain optimistic about his long-term outlook.

Why it matters

Ivey was a high draft pick and showed promise with the Pistons, so his successful integration into the Bulls' lineup is an important part of the team's future plans. However, the Bulls need to balance developing Ivey with ensuring he fully recovers from his injury to avoid further setbacks.

The details

Ivey debuted with the Bulls just four games after being traded, but has since missed over a month with a knee issue. The team has sent him to work out with their G League affiliate, suggesting progress, but Donovan says there is still no target date for Ivey's return as they focus on rebuilding his strength. When healthy, Donovan praised Ivey as an "explosive, downhill, two-way player" who had improved his shooting.

  • Ivey was traded to the Bulls on February 9, 2026.
  • Ivey made his Bulls debut on February 15, 2026.
  • Ivey last played for the Bulls on February 11, 2026.

The players

Jaden Ivey

A 24-year-old guard who was the 5th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons. He was traded to the Chicago Bulls in February 2026.

Billy Donovan

The head coach of the Chicago Bulls.

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What they’re saying

“Our medical guys, when I've spoken to them, they feel really, really optimistic and positive that he will regain that strength, but strength doesn't necessarily come back just like that. It's going to take a period of time.”

— Billy Donovan, Head Coach, Chicago Bulls

What’s next

The Bulls will continue to monitor Ivey's recovery and work to gradually reintegrate him into the lineup when he is fully healthy and ready to play without risk of further injury.

The takeaway

Ivey's successful return from injury is crucial for the Bulls' long-term plans, but the team is wisely taking a cautious approach to ensure he fully recovers rather than rushing him back too soon. Maintaining patience with Ivey's rehabilitation will be key to unlocking his potential as a two-way player.