Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey is close to returning after missing 11 games with a hamstring strain. Coach Billy Donovan indicated Giddey could play as early as Thursday against Minnesota. The timeline comes after three weeks of rehab and no reported setbacks.

Giddey exited the December 31 loss to New Orleans early and has since remained sidelined. Before the injury, the 22-year-old was producing All-Star caliber numbers — 19.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game — along with seven triple-doubles in his second season with the Bulls.

Chicago sits ninth in the Eastern Conference at 20-22, needing consistent playmakers. With Patrick Williams also nursing an ankle sprain, Giddey’s return offers Donovan more flexibility. His versatility on both ends could stabilize their playoff push in a competitive East.