The Detroit Pistons had high hopes when they snagged Jaden Ivey with the No. 5 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. But the journey hasn't been smooth.
Ivey, who earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team, faced a series of injuries during his stint with the Pistons. This trade deadline, he found himself heading to the Chicago Bulls, with Detroit acquiring sharpshooter Kevin Huerter in return.
In his initial four games with Chicago, Ivey averaged 11.5 points over 28.8 minutes per contest. Yet, during a recent matchup against the Toronto Raptors, he didn't see any action on the court, a decision made by the coaching staff.
After the game, Ivey opened up about his situation, saying he's been grappling with knee soreness. "I’m not the same player I used to be," he admitted.
"The old J.I. is dead. I’m alive in Christ no matter what the basketball setting is. … no matter how many DNPs, how many points I score, those things are a temporary thing.
Jesus is eternal."
Despite being sidelined, Ivey remains ready to step up when called upon. Chicago's assistant coach explained the decision was "strictly a basketball decision." As Ivey approaches restricted free agency at the end of the season, he'll be looking to make his mark when the opportunity arises.