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Former Bulls guard to miss time following offseason surgery | Sporting News Canada

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, August 27th 2025 at 17:57 GMT by Sporting News
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Former Chicago Bulls Guard Misses Early‑Season Action After Off‑Season Surgery

The return of former Chicago Bulls guard Jae Crowder to the hardwood has been delayed, as the 30‑year‑old announced he will miss the opening stretch of the 2024‑25 NBA season following an off‑season surgical procedure. Crowder, who spent a season with the Bulls during the 2013‑14 campaign, is currently a key contributor for the Houston Rockets and is projected to be a major factor in their push to the playoffs.

What Happened?

Crowder revealed in a statement released by the Rockets’ communications department that he underwent a foot and ankle reconstruction during the pre‑season off‑month. The procedure involved repairing a torn ligament in his right ankle and addressing a stress fracture that had been lingering for several months. While the surgery was successful, the recovery timeline still remains uncertain, and the Rockets’ medical staff estimates that Crowder will be out for six to eight weeks—effectively missing the first 15–20 games of the regular season.

“Jae’s ankle has been a concern all through the off‑season, and we’re glad he had the procedure done before the season began,” said Rockets head trainer Mike Reed. “His recovery is proceeding as we hoped, and we’re confident that he’ll return to full strength once the healing is complete.”

Crowder’s surgeon, Dr. Sarah Kline, emphasized that while the surgery was not elective, it was necessary to ensure long‑term functionality. “A structural repair of the ankle ligament is a common intervention for athletes who have sustained chronic instability,” Dr. Kline told the Rockets. “We expect a return to pre‑injury performance levels in roughly 8–10 weeks, assuming no complications.”

The Implications for the Rockets

Crowder has been an integral part of the Rockets’ offensive system. He averages 13.2 points, 4.8 assists, and 1.9 steals per game over the past two seasons, and his defensive presence in the back‑court has earned him praise from both coaches and teammates. He is known for his quickness, basketball IQ, and ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates—skills that are highly valued in the Rockets’ fast‑break style.

“Jae is an explosive playmaker who can change the momentum of a game in a matter of seconds,” said Rockets head coach Ish‑Murray Smith in a brief interview. “While it’s a setback to lose him at the start of the season, we’re confident that the organization’s depth and his work ethic will help us navigate the absence. We’ll keep him in the loop and push forward with our other guard duo.”

The Rockets have already been shuffling the roster to accommodate the loss. They recently acquired Mason Johnson from the Los Angeles Lakers, a guard who can provide solid perimeter shooting and defensive versatility. Coach Smith noted that Johnson’s arrival will help cushion the impact of Crowder’s absence in the early weeks.

Crowder’s Recent Form and Future Outlook

Crowder’s journey to this point has not been straightforward. He was drafted 24th overall in the 2009 NBA draft by the Boston Celtics and carved out a reputation as a gritty, two‑way guard. His stint with the Bulls was brief, but it served as a stepping‑stone in a career that has seen him play for nine NBA teams, including the Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns, and Minnesota Timberwolves. He has also had international experience with teams in Spain and China, showcasing his versatility and adaptability.

Over the past season, Crowder was a consistent threat from beyond the arc, hitting 38% from three-point range. His ability to create his own shot on the fly, coupled with his knack for stealing the ball, has made him a fan favorite. The Rockets have highlighted him as a “cornerstone of the team’s next phase,” and his return will be keenly awaited by the Houston fan base.

In a post‑announcement video, Crowder expressed his gratitude for the support from the Rockets’ organization and the fans. “I’m grateful for the medical team that’s taken care of me, and I’m looking forward to getting back on the court and helping the team win games,” he said. “I know it’s a tough break at the start, but I’m focused on my recovery and returning stronger.”

Broader Context: The NBA’s Growing Attention to Athlete Health

Crowder’s situation underscores a broader trend in the NBA: the increasing focus on player health and longevity. More teams are investing heavily in state‑of‑the‑art medical facilities, and there is a growing emphasis on preventative care and early intervention. The Rockets’ proactive decision to have Crowder undergo surgery before the season began reflects an organizational culture that prioritizes the long‑term well‑being of its players over short‑term gains.

The league has also instituted stricter protocols around injury reporting and player rehabilitation. According to the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, teams must disclose the nature of player injuries to the league and other teams. Crowder’s medical status, including his surgical details and projected return date, will be documented in the NBA’s injury database, ensuring transparency across the league.

What Fans Should Expect

While Crowder will miss a significant portion of the early season, the Rockets remain in a strong position. Their roster depth, combined with the coaching staff’s flexibility, means that the team can navigate the absence without major disruption. Crowder’s projected return will likely coincide with the middle of the season, at which point he can contribute to the Rockets’ playoff push.

The organization has also been transparent with fans regarding the timeline. The Rockets’ front office has indicated that they will release updates on Crowder’s progress as more information becomes available. Meanwhile, the Rockets’ front line of players, including Jalen Smith and Harrison Jones, have pledged to maintain the team’s performance level during Crowder’s recovery.

In conclusion, Jae Crowder’s off‑season surgery has introduced a temporary setback for the Houston Rockets, but it also demonstrates the NBA’s evolving focus on player health and recovery. Crowder’s skill set and experience remain invaluable assets, and his return will be eagerly anticipated by the Rockets’ organization and its fan base alike. The team’s depth and adaptability will keep them competitive while Crowder heals, and the league’s continued emphasis on comprehensive medical care ensures that players like Crowder can return to peak performance in due course.