Coach Fred Hoiberg remains optimistic that Gibson (ribs) will be able to return soon, the Chicago Tribune reports. "When he goes up to shoot or he extends his arms over his head it grabs on him," Hoiberg said. "It's too much pain to fight through right no

Coach Fred Hoiberg remains optimistic that Gibson (ribs) will be able to return soon, the Chicago Tribune reports. "When he goes up to shoot or he extends his arms over his head it grabs on him," Hoiberg said. "It's too much pain to fight through right now, especially with as much impact as Taj takes, getting hit in that area. It's better than it was a couple of days ago, but he's still not quite ready."

Analysis:

Gibson missed his fourth consecutive game Tuesday night as the Bulls fell to the Grizzlies, but he's not giving up making it back to the court this season. With the Bulls still clinging to an opportunity to make the playoffs, Gibson, regarded as one of the NBA's toughest players, will likely be willing to play through pain, provided it's not too severe. "There are bumps in the road every day," Gibson said shortly before Tuesday's tip off. "One day you have a good day and the next day it's sore. Playing with cracked ribs is different. They say there's nothing you can do but just rest." The Bulls are off Wednesday before heading to Miami to face the Heat on Thursday.