Bulls shut down Ivey and Smith for the season

Chicago’s campaign ends early for guards Jaden Ivey and Jalen Smith, with the franchise confirming both players will miss the remainder of the season. Ivey, acquired from Detroit at the February deadline, managed only four appearances before a knee issue halted his progress. The Bulls now face a key offseason decision: whether to extend an $8.77 million qualifying offer to make him a restricted free agent. Smith’s situation is different but equally frustrating.

A lingering calf problem worsened during Chicago’s recent matchup with Philadelphia, prompting the medical staff to shut him down as a precaution. The dual absence leaves the Bulls short‑handed in the final stretch and adds another layer of uncertainty to their summer planning, where roster continuity and financial flexibility will be central themes.