Update [October 18]: According to the New York Daily News, the Bulls have suspended Bobby Portis for eight games and Mirotic will miss four to six weeks “with a fractured jaw and a concussion.”
Bulls GM John Paxson said that Portis is “not a bad person” and “made a mistake” and that the organization will “support our players.”
“Bobby Portis is not a bad person. He’s a good kid but he made a mistake.” – John Paxson
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 18, 2017
“We anticipate Niko being out 4-6 weeks, but needs to clear concussion protocol.” – John Paxson
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 18, 2017
“We have to support our players and we will” – John Paxson
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) October 18, 2017
Original Story: Bulls forward Nikola Mirotic left practice on Tuesday with two broken bones in his face after getting punched by teammate Bobby Portis.
According to The Vertical’s Shams Charania, a shoving match during practice ended with a surprise punch from Portis.
Sources: Bulls forwards Bobby Portis and Nikola Mirotic were involved in serious altercation in practice today, leaving Mirotic hospitalized and out indefinitely. Story coming.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 17, 2017
Mirotic will likely be “sidelined indefinitely,” and Portis is “almost certain” to be suspended, reports the Chicago Tribune‘s KC Johnson.
Mirotic is home after going to hospital. He has 2 broken bones in his face and was evaluated for concussion, per source. Punched by Portis.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 17, 2017
One source said Mirotic had two broken bones after Portis connected and could miss up to three weeks. He has since been released from the hospital.
The Bulls said they are evaulating disciplinary action, but Portis is almost certain to draw a suspension.
The Bulls released a statement on Tuesday saying Mirotic suffered a concussion and “maxillary fractures” and that “surgery is likely required.”
Here’s Bulls release on Mirotic/Portis altercation: pic.twitter.com/CEzPKYPYcV
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 17, 2017
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