Bulls' Mirotic loses 15 lbs, 'still in a lot of pain' after appendectomy

The timeline for Nikola Mirotic's return to the court continues to grow murkier.

The Chicago Bulls sophomore forward - who underwent an appendectomy on Jan. 27, then had a second procedure to remove a hematoma - was slated to return soon after the All-Star break. But two weeks after the initial surgery, he appears no closer to game shape.

Mirotic had his stitches removed, but remains "in a lot of pain," Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg told reporters Wednesday. He added that Mirotic has lost 15 pounds since going under the knife, the byproduct of having been on a liquid diet.

Hoiberg is optimistic that having the stitches out will help Mirotic get back on his feet.

"That will hopefully get him more upright," the coach said.

In 44 games this season, Mirotic has averaged 10.6 points and 5.9 rebounds, while shooting 38.6 percent from the field and 35.4 percent from 3-point range. The Bulls have gone 2-5 in his absence.