Coach Scott Skiles said before Wednesday’s game he hadn’t ruled out starting rookie Tyrus Thomas down the stretch.
That move would come at the expense of veteran P.J. Brown, Thomas’ closest friend on the Bulls. The two recently spent an off day together in Orlando along with family members.
“I’ve created a monster,” Brown said facetiously. “This young guy is about ready to take over. But that’s good. We’re going to need him if we’re going to make a run.”
Indeed, with Andres Nocioni sidelined by plantar fasciitis in his right foot, any contributions from Thomas are welcome.
Not many occurred against the 76ers, one night after Thomas had his career-best night (23 points, nine rebounds) against the Celtics. Thomas finished with five points and four rebounds in 18 minutes and actually ceded to Brown, who turned back the clock with 11 points and seven rebounds.
Skiles said Thomas, while still dealing with maintaining his focus that may not be evident to the casual fan, has improved dramatically in this department even since Christmas.
“He has earned more playing time,” Skiles said. “I’m excited for him because I’ve seen a lot of progress.
“I know it’s easy to look at two or three games and say, `He could’ve been doing this all along. Why weren’t they playing him?’ I would counter that by saying that’s a valid point. And another valid point may be that he’s being brought along in just the right time.”
Wanted
Malik Allen, who starred in college here at Villanova, was greeted by well-wishers as wide-ranging as security guards and photographers who asked about his heart condition. Allen didn’t play for the second straight night after being cleared by team physicians.
Allen met his wife in college and recently bought a place in the area, which prompted local reporters to ask if he would sign with the 76ers. Allen, an unrestricted free agent, is a long shot to return to the Bulls.
Layups
The Bulls haven’t been 11 games above .500 since April 8, 2005. . . . Counting Thabo Sefolosha, the backcourt shot 15 of 51. . . . The Bulls had 15 turnovers but no fourth-quarter miscues.
