It looks like Chicago Bulls forward Taj Gibson will be back in time for the opening of the 2015–16 season as he is already doing light workouts to regain strength after going through an ankle surgery last June.
Gibson has been plagued by ankle woes in the past and in his basketball camp Saturday, he revealed that he played in the playoffs with a torn ligament, according to the Chicago Tribune.
"The doctor was astounded. He said he never knew anybody who could play through so much pain. I just thought it was normal. He was surprised I was even able to run or lift off it," Gibson said.
The 30-year-old forward played 12 games, which included two starts in the Bulls' playoff run last season, and averaged 7.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.0 assist, and 1.0 block in 23 minutes of action per contest.
Gibson also shared that the surgery tightened the ligament and so far, he cannot turn the ankle but is wearing an ankle support.
The former USC Trojan is set to be out for four months but reports say he is already running and cutting while also doing one-on-one basketball drills.
"The whole point is getting it stronger. The doctors said with more reps and running, it will get stronger," Gibson said.
According to Gibson, his doctor is slowing the progress and does not want to rush as he is doing what they tell him to do.
He added that the doctor told him that he is ahead of schedule but they want him to be cautious and to take his time.
Gibson and the Bulls reached the second round of the playoffs last season but were unable to make it past the Cleveland Cavaliers, getting eliminated in six games.
But they will have the chance to avenge the series loss as they open their season against the Cavaliers at the United Center on Oct. 27.
