Center of attention for shrinking Bulls as they fall in Denver 133-128

The Chicago Bulls fell to a 133-128 preseason loss against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night while grappling with frontcourt injuries. Head coach Tiago Splitter voiced concern over center depth as Nic Claxton remained sidelined with a hamstring issue and Zach Collins dealt with a quad injury. Nikola Jokic posted a triple-double of 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists to lead Denver.

Chicago leaned on a faster pace to offset their missing size, with Leonard Miller leading the team with 26 points. Rookie Caleb Wilson added 17 points and Matas Buzelis chipped in 13. Splitter noted that the team intends to use a three-man center rotation once players return, with Collins and rookie Tobe Awaka nearing readiness.