Rose misses Bulls practice, but Hinrich participates

Derrick Rose didn't make it back from the all-star break in time for Wednesday's evening practice at the Advocate Center. Coach Tom Thibodeau cited travel issues.

But Kirk Hinrich, who missed the last three games before the break with a turf-toe injury, did participate in the workout. So the Bulls essentially are at full strength as they get set for Friday's game at Detroit.

"I've had a toe issue for a long time. Just this year, all year, it's been a little bit worse," Hinrich said after practice. "Over the last month-and-a-half, it's been getting pretty bad. I was having trouble moving; hurting during the game, after the game, the next day. Just something I needed to get taken care of."

With Tony Snell playing so well before the break, Thibodeau will have some interesting decisions to make with the rotation. The coach had a Hinrich stat ready for reporters Wednesday.

"You look at everything. With Hinrich, when he plays 30-plus minutes, I think we're 11-5," Thibodeau said correctly. "Look at Mike (Dunleavy), we're 25-10 when he plays."

The Bulls also are 8-2 when Hinrich doesn't play and undefeated (2-0) when Snell scores at least 20 points.

"That doesn't mean you're going to base all your decisions on that," Thibodeau said. "But you look at what's transpired over 54 games."

Deadline approaching:

The NBA trade deadline will strike Thursday at 2 p.m. Central. There have been rumors of the Bulls showing interest in an extra shooter, but it seems unlikely they will make any deal before the deadline, especially since they're finally back to full strength.

"Every year it's the same," coach Tom Thibodeau said. "There's a million things that get talked about. Very few things get done. If something out there makes sense that we feel can help us, we'll pursue it. But we like the group we have."

Butler on cover:

Bulls all-star Jimmy Butler took his Sports Illustrated regional cover in stride.

"I don't know, it's just a magazine with my picture on the front," he said. "It doesn't mean anything to me. It's an honor, don't get me wrong, but I'd rather have Jo (Noah) or somebody on it.

What about getting so much national attention?

"I guess so. I have worked hard. But national love, no spotlight, under the radar - I'm fine," he said. "I just want to help my team win."