Chicago Bulls acting head coach Wes Unseld Jr. cited the team’s deep guard depth as the main reason for giving Jaden Ivey a rare DNP during their 110-101 home loss against the Toronto Raptors on Thursday evening.
Ivey joined the Chicago Bulls via a three-team trade involving the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Detroit Pistons. During the trade deadline, the team also acquired Rob Dillingham, Collin Sexton, and Anfernee Simons in separate deals. On top of that, they still have Josh Giddey and Tre Jones.
“It was strictly a basketball decision. It’s really tough to play six guards. We played five guys. I wanted to push to see if I can get Josh (Giddey) and Tre (Jones) their minutes up… and in doing that, somebody’s got squeezed,” Unseld said of Ivey’s benching via Joel Lorenzi of The Athletic.
“It’s a work in progress,” he continued. “There’s a comfort level with (Giddey and Jones) having been with us, and then getting them back with the new guys, finding that synergy. They’re starting to feel each other out.”
Chicago Bulls News: Jaden Ivey gets 100% real on getting his first DNP of his NBA career
During his postgame interview, Jaden Ivey admitted he was surprised by getting a DNP on Thursday night. However, the Chicago Bulls guard said he understands the situation, and added that he’ll always stay ready when his name is called.
“Whatever the team needs of me… Whether or not I’m on the court, playing 10 minutes or more. I think today’s my first DNP. I don’t think it changes my character. Win, lose, or draw, I’m here to do my job, to glorify God,” Ivey stated.
“I’ve been dealing with knee soreness in my knee. I’m sure people can call it out — I’m not the same player I used to be. That’s why. I’m not the J.I. I used to be. 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,” he added.
