Of all the Bulls’ newcomers, Michael Sweetney is making the biggest impression in exhibition games.
“We need him,” Ben Gordon said late Saturday after the Bulls defeated Boston. “Losing Eddy [Curry], we need another low-post player.”
In three exhibition games, Sweetney, a 6-foot-8-inch, 270-pound forward, leads the Bulls in scoring at 14.3 points a game and is second behind Tyson Chandler in rebounding at 8.3. He is 21 of 25 from the free-throw line.
“You see some of the things he can do,” coach Scott Skiles said. “He can pass the ball. He made two or three passes out of the post. He can handle the ball out front. He can score inside, he has a nice touch and he makes free throws.
“We are still trying to figure out how to fully utilize him. He is definitely a multidimensional player.”
The fresh start with the Bulls seems to agree with Sweetney. He’s playing 27.7 minutes a game after averaging 16.8 in his career.
Feeling fine
Andres Nocioni was considered doubtful to play against Boston because he had reinjured his left thumb. He surprised by playing 15 minutes 29 seconds.
“There were doubts because I hurt it again in practice [Friday],” Nocioni said. “I think I’m better, and I had no problems in the game.”
Nocioni, who scored four points, said he was a little rusty.
“I was out of my usual rhythm, not unusual for a first game,” he said. “But I think I did fine. I felt comfortable. With some time and patience, I’ll play better.”
The addition of Nocioni, Chris Duhon and Darius Songaila had a calming effect on the Bulls.
None of the three had played because of injuries.
“Just having them out there, it seemed like we were more of the team that we’re used to,” Gordon said. “We’re not really a one-man team. We depend on all our pieces.”
Layups
Knicks President Isiah Thomas reportedly fined former Bull Antonio Davis more than $250,000 for missing two exhibition games. Davis was acquired in the Curry trade but didn’t stay long at Knicks training camp. He returned to the Chicago area. . . .
The Bulls took Sunday off, their first break this exhibition season.
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mxgarcia@tribune.com
