Jimmy Butler Likely To Return Against Hornets
(CBS) After missing the past 11 games with a hyper-extended left elbow, wing Jimmy Butler is likely to play tonight when the Bulls host the Hornets.
"We'll see when he warms up tonight, but it looks like he could be a go," coach Tom Thibodeau said.
"He feels good."
Butler participated fully in Monday's morning shootaround. He won't be on a minutes restriction when he returns. Butler leads the NBA in averaging 38.9 minutes per game.
Chicago went 5-6 without Butler.
"He's probably our best two-way player, so anytime you can get a guy like that back, it's going to help in all areas," Thibodeau said.
As for Derrick Rose (right knee), he hasn't been cleared for full contact yet, but Thibodeau said that clearance could come soon. Rose remains on schedule to return before the playoffs start.