Although the NBA season has just started, there are already problems within the Chicago Bulls. It was reported that the Bulls’ forwards Nikola Mirotic and Bobby Portis had “serious altercation” on the team’s practice on Tuesday, which ended with Mirotic being admitted to the hospital. According to ESPN, the players have been trash talking each other during the practice, before things turned physical. Mirotic charged at Portis twice and after that Portis threw a punch at him. Mirotic ended up on the ground and stayed there for several minutes before heading to the hospital. It is important to note that both players were trying to win team’s starting power forward spot, with Mirotic emerging as a favorite.
The Bulls have confirmed the altercation via an official statement, saying that Mirotic will likely need a surgery and he is out indefinitely. You can read the team’s full statement below.
“Chicago Bulls forwards Bobby Portis and Nikola Mirotic had a physical altercation during today’s practice. As a result of the incident, Mirotic suffered a concussion and maxillary fractures. Surgery is likely required. Mirotic is out indefinitely. The Bulls are evaluating disciplinary action. An update will be provided when applicable.“
According to the Chicago Tribune, Mirotic said that he suffered two fractures while estimating that he could be out from the court “a few weeks, at least.”
Nikola Mirotic recently signed a new two-year, $27 million deal with the rebuilding Chicago Bulls. According to the reports, the second year of the contract is team-option. Mirotic emerged as the longest standing player on the Bulls’ current roster. Since he became a member of the Bulls, Mirotic averaged 10.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. The team has decided to start almost from scratch this season, trading away Jimmy Butler and parting ways with Rajon Rondo and Dwyane Wade.
