Joakim Noah: Not expecting to miss time due to knee setback

Noah, who exited Monday's win over the 76ers with left knee soreness, seems optimistic that he'll be ready to play in the Bulls' next game Friday against the Hornets, K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune reports. "My knee has been bothering me a little bit," said Noah. "I just had to be smart and rest it and listen to my body. But I'll be back in no time."

Analysis:

Noah was initially listed in the starting lineup for the first time this season, but after taking warmups and experiencing the soreness, the big man decided it would be best to take the night off. He headed back to the locker room shortly after the game started, allowing Nikola Mirotic to make another start at power forward. Though the knee that bothered Noah is the same one that required surgery in May 2014, an MRI isn't on tap, so a short absence can be expected. It remains to be seen, however, if coach Fred Hoiberg will go with Noah or Mirotic in the starting lineup for Friday's tilt with the Hornets.