Prior to the Olympic games, Luol Deng said he knew exactly what was in store for his ligament damaged wrist, but refused to reveal his plan of action.  After much speculation, especially from Tom Thibodeau suggesting Luol Deng would be ready for training camp, Deng finally opened up about his off-season blueprint leading into 2012-2013. “Do I look like I need [surgery]?…I feel great,” said Deng after Great Britain’s final game of Olympic action, a win over China 90-58, their first in 64 years.  

Thibodeau has openly stated on ESPN Radio as well as in an interview at the Las Vegas Summer League that he believed his All-Star small forward was planning on being ready for training camp (Oct. 1) and forgoing surgery.  Deng basically confirmed his coach’s presumptions, concluding: “I have time to make decisions and be healthy by the time we start (training camp).” 

Is this good news or bad news? On the bright side, the Bulls will have their second best player on the court while their best player mends for the better part of the season.  On the flip side – will Deng be effective? When Derrick Rose went down, he proved to be inconsistent and struggled driving the ball.  He was played to his weak left hand, and showed little to no effectiveness. He grimaced every time the wrist grazed contact.  Deng seems to believe he will be okay, and will strive for improvement: “I want to be a better player than I was last year.” We’ll just have to wait and see.  Until then, we open it up to you:

 Loading ...