The Chicago Bulls suffered a significant blow just days before tipoff, as reserve center Zach Collins underwent successful surgery to repair a non-displaced fracture in his left wrist, per Bulls PR. He'll be reevaluated in four weeks, sidelining one of the team's most consistent performers heading into the regular season.
Collins appeared to sustain the injury during Thursday's preseason finale against Minnesota, exiting after scoring 10 points, 4 rebounds and a steal. The setback halts momentum from what had been an outstanding preseason slate—over five preseason games, he averaged 11.6 points on 50% three-point shooting, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.0 steals in just 17.5 minutes. In his second preseason start, he posted 13 points and eight rebounds while connecting on two threes.
His shooting touch, physical presence, and two-way reliability had made him one of the most dependable frontcourt pieces in Billy Donovan's rotation.
"That's a key loss for us in terms of just what he brings," Donovan said on Saturday's media opportunity. "I think he's had a great training camp, he's had a great summer. The biggest thing for him is past the surgery and he's able to get back."
With Collins out for at least a month, Jalen Smith becomes the primary option to fill the void. Smith's performance in Thursday's preseason finale—15 points, five rebounds, and three blocks—offered encouragement. The 25-year-old's length and mobility could prove crucial as the Bulls navigate the schedule without Collins.
"Zach is a tremendous player. He's one of our pillars of physicality for the team," Smith said. "I gotta step up now."
For the other injury report, there was brighter news elsewhere on Coby White, who returned to full practice participation after missing most of the preseason with a calf strain. White said he felt great in his calf, who is expected to play when Chicago opens the 2025-26 season against Detroit on October 22 at the United Center.
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