Rajon Rondo injury damages Bulls playoff chances against Celtics
Rajon Rondo has a fractured right thumb and will be out indefinitely, the Chicago Bulls announced on Friday.
The injury occured in game two of their playoff series against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday, and x-rays confirmed the fracture. The good news for Rondo is that surgery is not required, but it hinders the Bulls’ hopes of upsetting the top-seeded Celtics.
Chicago holds a 2-0 series lead, becoming just the second number eight seed in history to steal the first two games against top-ranked opponents.
Rondo played a huge role in those victories, especially in game two when he had a near triple-double compiling 11 points,14 assists, nine rebounds and five steals.
His play has been elevated in the postseason and has been one of the primary reasons that Chicago are serious contenders to shock Boston. Back-up guards Jerian Grant and Michael Carter-Williams will be expected to step up in the veteran’s absence.
The Bulls could look to Jimmy Butler or Dwyane Wade to play the point position instead of relying on Grant and Carter-Williams, who have limited experience and playing time.
Chicago will look to defend home court on Friday and Sunday as the series moves to United Center.
