Jabari Parker Returns Today and That’s Awesome

This isn’t the first rodeo for Jabari Parker. He has been here before. In his rookie year, he tore his ACL in his left knee after only 25 games. It was a bummer, but the Bucks kept winning that season and the prospect of Jabari coming back was promising. When he returned, it took awhile for him to get back into a grove, but he eventually looked MORE explosive than ever before.

The 2016-2017 season saw Jabari become the offensive force many had predicted he would be coming out of the draft. Parker was averaging 20.1 points and 6.2 rebounds while shooting a pleasantly surprising 36.5% from three last season. Did I mention that he looked more explosive?

Sadly the ride came to another abrupt halt last February, when Jabari tore his ACL in his left knee for a second time. For most players, that would be it for their careers, but for Jabari it’s just another speed bump. Coming back from an ACL tear has become common for athletes, with modern medicine and progressive rehabs the driving force behind this development. Jabari also had fan-favorite Suki Hobson, one of the best strength and rehabilitation specialist trainers in the world, right by his side. If there is anyone who can come back from this injury again, that man is Jabari Parker.

With every passing month in 2017, Jabari would show glimpses of his recovery. Having the occasional dunk during shoot around or after a practice. As his return grew imminent, the highlights became more frequent.

In the middle of Monday’s game against the 76ers, Bucks fans got the much anticipated news.

Mitchell has laid the expectations for Jabari this season, but let’s just disregard that for now. Take a look at the positives; we will have time to dissect a missed defensive assignment here and there (and there...). It’s a chance for Jabari to be eased back this year. He can be the spark for the second unit for the remainder of the season. It would be nice if he can play in the playoffs, as twice now he’s had to be a spectator.

This is a time to celebrate a man who went through two awful injuries. A guy who speaks out on social issues and helps the community. A good teammate and wonderful person. I am happy to see a healthy Jabari back on the court; and the idea of Eric Bledsoe / Giannis Antetokounmpo / Jabari fast breaks should make any fan swoon (so as long as Bledsoe doesn’t try a behind the back pass). I am excited for Jabari’s return and think that the feeling is true for all of Bucks nation. If not, hopefully this video below does the trick.