Jabari Parker was the second overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft but only got to play in 25 games as a rookie before he tore his ACL. The Milwaukee Bucks still went on to have a very good season as they made the playoffs but they should take another step forward with the addition of Greg Monroe and Parker coming back. The timetable for Parker's return is unknown officially but it looks as though there is a realistic chance he could be back for the Bucks opening night contest, according to Gary Woelfel of The Journal Times.
The typical recovery time period for a torn ACL is about a year and Parker tore his last December. If Parker were to return for the opening night game it would be about a ten month recovery period which isn't unheard of but is still a very fast recovery.
Parker is known as an extraordinarily hard worker so a quick return wouldn't be much of a surprise to anyone and it is looking very likely. Parker reportedly has been working out and doing just about everything including making hard cuts, jumping and sprinting among other things which would make it seem like he is well on his way.
The Bucks have been very quiet about the progress of the former Duke Blue Devil as they try to keep his progress under wraps but word is getting around that he is doing great and is substantially ahead of schedule with his rehab. There had been rumors that Parker would not make a return until the 2016 portion of the upcoming season but those were shut down by an associate of Parker's.
When Parker does come back his minutes will likely be monitored through the early portion of the season. The Bucks might choose to play him about 20 minutes per game instead of giving him regular starter's minutes. Parker is also expected to be used exclusively at power forward this upcoming season as the Bucks have Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo on the wings.
In his 25 games a season ago Parker averaged 12.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per game while shooting 49 percent from the field. Parker is hopeful to get back on the court for the Bucks October 28th game against the New York Knicks but ultimately the organization will make the decision that is best for the 20 year olds long-term health. The fact that opening night is even an option for Parker is a great sign for Bucks fans.
