NBA Injury News and Rumors 2016: Bulls' Jimmy Butler Strained Knee Latest Update

By Jude Abastar, Christian Post Contributor Monday, February 08, 2016

The Chicago Bulls' 115-110 defeat at the hands of the surging Denver Nuggets on Friday night wasn't as stinging as losing All-Star swingman Jimmy Butler to an injury. Butler sustained the injury in the closing minutes of the first half while trying to convert a layup and getting fouled by Joffrey Lauvergne. It was first thought that he hurt his right knee after seeing the video replay, but he later complained that it was his left knee.

As tough as he is, he tried to stay in the game, taking his bonus shots before heading to the locker room to be evaluated. He was seen walking on his own out of the training room after several minutes but was already wearing an ice pack on his left knee.

The day after, the team announced that an MRI revealed Butler had a left knee strain and there still is no exact time as to when he can return to action. According to head coach Fred Hoiberg, Butler is in Chicago and will be seeing doctors to figure out an accurate timetable for his return. He also said that they're hoping to get some answers as to what treatments are going to be made.

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Although the 26-year-old star was absent in the Bulls' Saturday night loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Hoiberg is positive that he'll be able to play in the All-Star Game in Toronto scheduled for this weekend.

The 112-105 loss to the Wolves is an epitome of the Bulls' inconsistency this season, although the team is facing teams with a depleted lineup. Aside from Butler, center Joakim Noah also didn't play and probably won't be available for the rest of the season. Perhaps the only good news for them is that veteran shooter Mike Dunleavy has returned to action after missing all games this season due to a back injury.