Chicago Bulls: Game One Injury Report

Before I get into the official preview for the Bulls' Halloween matchup against the Nets, a quick summary of the injury situation...

(From Bulls.com & Chicagosports.com)

C Ben Wallace

* Left ankle sprain
* Day-to-day
* Did not practice on Monday
* X-rays taken Thursday evening were negative

"If it were left to me, I'd be out there,"  Wallace said Monday.

"Ben's getting better," coach Scott Skiles said. "I'm hoping he can get out and move around a bit [Tuesday] so we can see where he is. I don't know where he is because he hasn't moved around at all, which is wise right now."

F Joakim Noah

* Right ankle sprain
* Day-to-day
* Did not practice on Monday
* X-rays taken Thursday evening were negative
* Will not play Wednesday night

F Joe Smith

* Swollen right knee
* Practiced Saturday, pain free

"My body feels good," Smith said. "My legs feel good. I haven't had to see the training staff."

Analysis

The best news is that Tyrus Thomas is healthy. 

While it's good to see that none of the injuries to the big men are serious, it's especially important to see one of them fully healthy. 

If Smith and Wallace play Wednesday, they'll be hobbled, so having a 100 percent Tyrus will be key.  

Although I'd prefer to start Aaron Gray, look for Tyrus to open the game next to Wallace.  If Big Ben can't go, look for Gray to start in his place.