The 2013 NBA season proved to be difficult for the Chicago Bulls, as their star player, Derrick Rose, missed the entire year due to an ACL injury. The challenges continued during the playoffs, as Luol Deng was unable to play in several games due to illness. However, there is an intriguing story behind Deng’s absence.
During a recent interview on the Knuckleheads Podcast, Deng reflected on the 2013 NBA playoffs, where he missed several games due to a medical condition. Deng developed a high fever in the first round against the Brooklyn Nets, prompting doctors to suggest that he might have meningitis. They advised that he needed surgery before his condition worsened.
“Out of nowhere, they just sent me to the hospital. When I got to the hospital, they misdiagnosed me. They ended up saying my fever was too high and whatnot, and they ended up giving me a spinal tap surgery.” Deng said.
It was subsequently disclosed that the medical professionals had provided an incorrect diagnosis. As a consequence of the surgical procedure, he encountered significant complications, including spinal fluid leakage and a detrimental loss of bodily control.
Deng Opts Out Of Lawsuit Against Bulls In Desire To Play Again
Deng was profoundly affected by the Bulls‘ choice concerning his surgery. He stated his intention to pursue legal action against the franchise for the incorrect diagnosis. However, as time passed, he reconsidered this course of action, understanding that taking a stand against the Bulls might jeopardize his professional career.
“There was a dispute going on with the NBPA and so on about me suing the Bulls because of what took place. But I knew that if I sued the Bulls, I would either not play basketball ever again in order to win the case, to prove that things didn’t go well and this could be career-ending but wanted to hoop, so I said, ‘Yo, I’m not suing anyone. I’m just going to hoop. I’m just going to come back.” Deng said.
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Deng had a remarkable career with the Bulls, playing for the team for a decade from 2004 to 2014. During the 2014-15 season, the franchise traded him to the Cleveland Cavaliers. After departing from the Bulls, Deng continued his basketball career and successfully built a real estate portfolio worth $125 million.
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