Mike Dunleavy Injury: Updates on Bulls Forward's Recovery from Back Surgery

The Chicago Bulls announced small forward Mike Dunleavy Jr. had back surgery, which is slated to sideline him for eight to 10 weeks. 

Continue for updates.

---

Dunleavy Undergoes Microdiscectomy

Friday, Sept. 25

The Bulls confirmed Dunleavy's status with an official statement Friday afternoon: 

"

Bulls forward Mike Dunleavy successfully underwent a low back microdiscectomy procedure earlier today at Rush University Medical Center. Dunleavy had experienced some occasional back discomfort over the summer which had recently worsened. Conservative measures failed to satisfactorily resolve his symptoms, therefore, the decision was made to perform the surgery. The timing is unfortunate, but it was imperative that all conservative measures were exhausted prior to making this decision. He is expected to be out 8-10 weeks.

"

CSN Chicago's Vincent Goodwill pegged possible return dates, given the team's estimated timetable: 

While Dunleavy has played the role of sidekick to stars Derrick Rose, Jimmy Butler and Pau Gasol, his absence will be tough for a Bulls team that's attempting to develop chemistry under new head coach Fred Hoiberg. 

A spot-up shooting weapon on the perimeter, Dunleavy led all Bulls players (with a minimum of 50 attempts) in three-point field-goal percentage with a conversion rate of 40.7 percent.

Bleacher Report's Dan Favale noted the 13-year veteran was a lethal knockdown shooter who helped space the floor a year ago:

With Dunleavy sidelined, the Bulls will be forced to turn to second-year man Doug McDermott for contributions on the wing. During an injury-plagued rookie season, McDermott averaged three points per game on 40.2 percent shooting from the field and 31.7 percent shooting from three over 36 appearances.