Chicago Bulls Guard Josh Giddey Playing Through Left Wrist Injury
Giddey is listed as probable for Friday's matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks following a difficult season opener.
Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey has been playing through a sprained left wrist sustained during the team's first preseason game against the Phoenix Suns. The injury went unlisted on the official injury report prior to the team's season opener, but came to light after reporters noticed a wrap on his left arm following a 135-92 loss to the Toronto Raptors.
During the opening night defeat, which marked the worst season-opening loss in franchise history, Giddey struggled offensively. He finished the game with just two points on 1-of-10 shooting from the field, missing all four of his three-point attempts and both free throws, while recording six assists and five turnovers in 24 minutes of play.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Giddey confirmed that he suffered the injury during the preseason, underwent an MRI, and will have to manage the issue moving forward. Medical staff and team officials have opted to monitor the left wrist rather than shut the guard down, with the medical team expecting to manage the condition throughout the season.
Despite the lingering physical concern, Giddey was listed as probable on the NBA injury report ahead of the Bulls' afternoon game against the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. The scheduling adjustment for the game was forced by the World Series.
The injury adds to a complex health history for the lead playmaker, who signed a four-year, $100 million contract extension. Last season, Giddey averaged 17.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 9.1 assists across 54 games before missing the final five contests due to a hamstring injury. He subsequently underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right ankle in May and was only cleared for five-on-five activity in early September.
As the Bulls prepare to face Milwaukee, the team anticipates welcoming back Dailyn Swain and Jordan Hawkins, both of whom missed the opener due to an illness. Swain, the No. 15 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, is expected to join the rotation and offer much-needed assistance with ball handling and pressure, an area where Chicago struggled significantly on opening night.
With availability standing as a critical variable for the Bulls' roster, the team will closely monitor Giddey's comfort level on the court. If the wrist injury flares up or forces him to miss time, backup options like Tre Jones could see increased responsibilities as Chicago looks to rebound from its rough start.