The Chicago Bulls are gearing up for a Wednesday night matchup against the Indiana Pacers, but they’ll be doing it short-handed once again. Tre Jones (hamstring) and Zach Collins (toe) have both been ruled out, per the NBA’s official injury report.
For the Bulls, who sit at 23-23 after a 129-118 loss to the Lakers on Monday, this is just the latest chapter in a season that’s been consistently interrupted by injuries. Jones and Collins have both played key roles when healthy, and their absences will once again test Chicago’s depth and resilience.
Jones has been sidelined since January 22, when he logged 27 minutes in a win over the Timberwolves, putting up 12 points and 7 assists. It was a solid all-around performance, the kind of steady play Bulls fans have come to expect from him this season. In his first full year with Chicago, Jones is averaging 12.4 points and 5.8 assists per game - numbers that speak to his growing role as a facilitator and floor general.
The Bulls brought Jones in last summer on a three-year, $24 million deal, and he’s made that investment look smart. After coming over from the Spurs late last season, he played 18 games for Chicago down the stretch and posted 11.5 points and 4.9 rebounds a night. He’s been a stabilizing presence in the backcourt, and his absence leaves a noticeable gap in the rotation.
Zach Collins, meanwhile, has been out since December 27, when he posted a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double in a loss to the Bucks. On the year, he’s averaging 9.7 points and 5.8 boards - not eye-popping stats, but his size and versatility have made him a valuable piece in the frontcourt, especially with the Bulls dealing with other injuries.
Like Jones, Collins came over from San Antonio, arriving in the Zach LaVine trade last February. He played 28 games for the Bulls in the second half of last season, averaging 8.6 points and 6.7 rebounds.
Chicago’s injury woes have been a recurring theme this season, and the loss of both Jones and Collins puts more pressure on the remaining core. With the team hovering at .500, every game matters - especially in a tight Eastern Conference playoff race.
On the other side, Indiana’s dealing with its own health concerns. Obi Toppin is out with a right foot stress fracture, and Jarace Walker is questionable due to a bruised right foot. The Pacers come into the game at 11-36, and while the record doesn’t jump off the page, they’ve shown flashes of competitiveness - especially when their young core is healthy.
For the Bulls, Wednesday’s game is another opportunity to prove they can weather the storm. Without Jones and Collins, they’ll need big performances from their starters and bench alike. And if there’s been one constant this season, it’s that this team doesn’t shy away from adversity - they’ve had no choice but to embrace it.