The Chicago Bulls are heading into a back-to-back set against the Brooklyn Nets, starting Friday on the road and wrapping up Sunday at home. As they look to build on their thrilling 126-124 win over the Utah Jazz, the status of Kevin Huerter looms large for this weekend’s matchups.
Huerter is officially listed as probable with tightness in his right hip-an issue that cropped up after logging 19 minutes and dropping 10 points in Wednesday’s win. It’s the latest in a string of minor setbacks for the sharpshooting wing, who’s been a frequent visitor to the injury report this season. Earlier in December, he missed time with an adductor injury, and now the hip tightness adds another layer to what’s been a stop-and-start year for him.
Despite the bumps and bruises, Huerter has managed to stay fairly active, appearing in 35 games so far. He’s averaging 11.7 points and 3.7 rebounds per contest-solid numbers for a player who’s toggled between starting and coming off the bench depending on the Bulls’ ever-changing injury landscape.
With Chicago dealing with a thinned-out roster, Huerter’s flexibility has been crucial. He’s stepped into the starting lineup 10 times this season, where he’s averaged 11.3 points, 3.0 boards, and 2.1 assists per game. While those numbers don’t leap off the page, his ability to space the floor and provide secondary playmaking has helped stabilize the Bulls’ rotation during a stretch where continuity has been hard to come by.
As for Friday’s game in Brooklyn, Huerter’s probable tag suggests he’s trending in the right direction-but nothing is guaranteed until tip-off. The Bulls are already navigating several other injuries, which could impact how coach Billy Donovan manages Huerter’s minutes if he does play.
Here’s a look at the Bulls’ full injury report heading into Friday night:
- Kevin Huerter - Probable (Right hip tightness)
- Julian Phillips - Questionable (Right wrist sprain)
- Josh Giddey - Out (Left hamstring strain)
- Zach Collins - Out (Right toe sprain)
- Haywood Highsmith - Out (Recovery from right knee surgery)
- Ziaire Williams - Out (Return to competition reconditioning)
With so many rotation pieces sidelined, every available body matters-especially one like Huerter, who can knock down shots, move without the ball, and give the Bulls some much-needed perimeter balance.
So, is Kevin Huerter playing tonight against the Nets? As of now, it’s a game-time decision, but the signs are pointing toward a green light. If he’s good to go, expect him to play a key role in Chicago’s attempt to string together wins and gain traction in the Eastern Conference race.