Bogans, Korver could miss next preseason game

The Bulls might once again find themselves playing short-handed in Wednesday's preseason skirmish at Toronto.

Guard Keith Bogans missed a portion of Tuesday's practice with a sore back, and guard Kyle Korver got the day off to rest a painful cyst in his left ankle. Both players are questionable for the Raptors game.

“We'll be going back to the same starting lineup if everyone's available, Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said. “If Keith can go, he'll start at the two. If not, Ronnie (Brewer) will start at the two.

Forward Taj Gibson sat out two games last weekend with a sore heel but practiced the past two days with no problems and is expected back in the starting lineup at Toronto.

But building chemistry among the newcomers has been a problem. Brewer and C.J. Watson missed games early in the preseason, while the most important addition, forward Carlos Boozer, will be out for several weeks with a broken bone in his right hand.

“I think it's coming along slowly but surely, Brewer said. “We've still got to find the identity of this team. With coach Thibs coming in and all the new guys, we're still trying to learn each other. Luckily, that's what preseason and practice are for. I think we've got a good bunch of guys who get along well together.

Rose down with defense:

Asked if any player deserved credit for picking up his defensive schemes, coach Tom Thibodeau singled out Derrick Rose.

“I think Derrick has made a conscious effort to get into the ball, to help and to challenge shots, Thibodeau said. “I like the progress he's made and I think he's doing a great job of trying to fight over screens. I think our communication has to be better.

Thunder makes cover:

Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Bulls' opening-night opponent, are featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated's NBA preview edition. Oddly enough, Durant is flanked by ex-Bull Thabo Sefolosha and center Nenad Krstic, rather than more talented teammates Russell Westbrook and Jeff Green.

SI is not so enthusiastic about the local team. It has the Bulls finishing second to Milwaukee in the Central Division and sixth overall in the East.