Bulls get a boost as Josh Giddey returns after missing last 11 games

Bulls guard Josh Giddey made his return to the court on Thursday, missing 11 games to rehab a strained left hamstring.Kevin C. Cox/Getty

MINNEAPOLIS – Josh Giddey jokingly downplayed his excitement for his return before Thursday’s game.

It had been 11 games in street clothes because of a strained left hamstring, and he was on a minutes restriction, but with 5:30 left in the first quarter against the Timberwolves, finally the point guard checked in and was back in action.

Thirteen quick points, a rebound and a steal, like he had never left.

So what exactly did his presence mean for the Bulls? Considering they were 6-5 without him, maybe not much. Give it time, according to Billy Donovan.

Giddey…