Alex Caruso's injury extent disclosed after unusual teammate collision

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports that the Chicago Bulls are preparing for the likelihood of not having star guard Alex Caruso in Friday's play-in game against the Miami Heat. Caruso's "significant" left ankle sprain, sustained when Hawks center Andre Drummond stepped on his foot during Wednesday's game, casts doubt on his availability.

Watch the video below for details on what occurred.




Cody Westerlund of 670TheScore.com reports that Caruso exited Wednesday's game against the Hawks due to what seemed to be a right foot injury.

Friday's pivotal matchup for the No. 8 seed in the East may become a gritty battle with both teams missing key players. Jimmy Butler's likely absence due to an MCL injury suffered in Wednesday's loss to the 76ers adds to the stakes.

Should Caruso also sit out Friday, the game's outcome could rely heavily on the contributions of each team's supporting cast.

Caruso has been a key contributor for the Bulls, averaging 10.1 points on 46.8% shooting from the field and 40.8% from three-point range, while also providing stellar defense.

The winner of the Bulls vs. Heat matchup will advance to face the Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs, commencing on Sunday at TD Garden. The team will feel Caruso's absence on defense in this pivotal match.

Source Sports Illustrated : Bulls Bracing to be Without Alex Caruso for Must-Win Game vs Heat, per Report
Source CBS Sports : Bulls' Alex Caruso: Exits game