Bulls figure to press more often this season

The Bulls may add a new twist to their defense, which already is among the league's best.

"We've messed around with it a little bit in the past," Skiles said Wednesday at the Berto Center. "But we've sort of just allowed our guards to get up in the backcourt and pressure people.

"No offense against anybody, but we haven't felt like we've had the bigs with enough mobility and athleticism to come up into the backcourt. Now we feel like we do. We're going to try and use that."

Skiles was referring to Ben Wallace and Tyrus Thomas, who started Tuesday's game. Rookie Joakim Noah also fits the description.

"Sometimes it can change the momentum of a game," Skiles added. "It gives teams a different look, and we've got personnel who can pull it off, we think. So we'll continue to look at it."

He's back: Thabo Sefolosha returned to practice Wednesday after sitting out 10 days with a right hamstring strain.

"I think it's better that I did it now instead of during the season," he said. "I wanted to take my time, take no chances."

The 6-foot-7 swingman played well this summer for the Switzerland national team, and he's eager to extend that performance into the NBA season.

"I'm confident about that," Sefolosha said. "I think I worked hard during the summer, and I did pretty good with the national team. I'm ready for that second season. I know a little bit more of what to expect, so I'm definitely ready."

Smith bounces back: Joe Smith was able to practice Wednesday with no swelling in his right knee, a day after playing 13 minutes in his preseason debut.

Smith has suited up for seven different NBA teams in 13 years and thinks getting used to a new home is never easy.

"It's very difficult," he said. "You obviously want to get comfortable with your teammates. Then you want to pick up the plays and see where they're comfortable on the floor."