The Chicago Bulls’ announced on Monday that 2016 first-round draft pick, Denzel Valentine, will miss four to six months after reconstructive surgery on his left ankle. Valentine was diagnosed with ongoing ankle instability that has kept him out 17 games into the 2018-19 NBA season.
INJURY UPDATE: The Bulls announced today that guard Denzel Valentine has been diagnosed with ongoing ankle instability. Valentine will undergo a surgical reconstruction with an anticipated recovery time of four-to-six months. He is expected to make a full recovery. pic.twitter.com/28yJiH6teX
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) November 19, 2018
Valentine was evaluated by Wisconsin foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Bob Anderson. Anderson will begin surgical reconstruction on Valentine the week of November 26. The Bulls announced in a release, that he is expected to fully recover by the summer, leading into training camp for the 2019-20 NBA season.
Bulls guard Denzel Valentine undergoing ankle surgery, out for the year, the team announced. pic.twitter.com/6LEMYLz2H9
— Vincent Goodwill (@VinceGoodwill) November 19, 2018
During an interview at Tuesday’s practice, Valentine seemed optimistic about his return. “When I come back it’s going to be a brand-new ankle. I’ve been pretty much-having ankle issues since my rookie year,” Valentine said.
Valentine also discussed how he looks forward to the much-needed time off he’s going to have to recover. “Imma have a whole year to recover, get my body right, which I haven’t got to do since college really.”
#Bulls forward Denzel Valentine on having his season ended due to injury #BullsNation pic.twitter.com/HC1R68RSb1
— Tony Gill (@tonygill670) November 20, 2018
Valentine averaged 10.2 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game last year for the Bulls. He missed the final two weeks last season due to surgery on his left knee.
The Bulls are also without Kris Dunn (MCL sprain), Bobby Portis (MCL sprain) and Lauri Markkanen (elbow). Chicago currently sits at 4-13 on the season.
