Through 10 Bulls games this NBA season, it’s already become clear: Chicago is a long way from playoff contention. But there have been glimpses of hope.
With a few capable veteran players like Norman Powell and Jalen Smith, the Bulls could have some trade pieces by the deadline, but its their new star rookie who has provided the most excitement.
Caleb Wilson has been one of many impressive rookies in the 2026 class — but the athletic forward is now set to miss time with an injury.
Here’s the latest on Wilson and how it could take a tough Bulls season from bad to worse.
MORE: The Sporting News’ updated NBA Power Rankings
Caleb Wilson injury update
Wilson left Wednesday’s game against the Spurs, an eventual comeback win for San Antonio, in the third quarter with a hand injury. He left the game after trying to knock the ball out of Victor Wembanyama’s hands.
Caleb Wilson right hand injury against the Spurs, with 9:21 minutes remaining in the 3rd quarter. Will not return. https://t.co/PShKU3Qo75
— CalebWilsonLover (@CalebWilsonZone) November 12, 2026
Now, after some medical evaluation, Wilson has received a diagnosis: a fractured right hand, which is expected to sideline him for 4-to-6 weeks, according to Shams Charania.
Chicago Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson is undergoing surgery for a fractured right hand and will miss four to six weeks, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/poSfxAWexJ
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 12, 2026
Wilson has a history of injuries in his hand — in his lone season at North Carolina last college basketball season, he missed the NCAA tournament after needing surgery to repair a broken right thumb.
The No. 4 pick has been one of the most encouraging signs for the Bulls in 10 games this season, averaging 18.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game on 42% shooting from the floor at just 20 years old. Alongside Washington’s A.J. Dybantsa, Memphis’ Cam Boozer, Golden State’s Yaxel Lendeborg, Sacramento’s Darius Acuff Jr. and more, Wilson has been a member of an exciting rookie class.
For Chicago, it’s a tough break for the most important player on the Bulls’ roster. Under first-year head coach Tiago Splitter, the Bulls have been in the early stages of a rebuild centered around Wilson and forward Matas Buzelis, with some older players like Josh Giddey, Powell and Smith also factoring in.
A Bulls team that was already short-handed on top talent compared to most Eastern Conference squads will now face at least a month without its most dynamic young player, which will likely only propel the squad further down the NBA standings.
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