Bulls' Rose, Noah to play in Game 1; Hinrich questionable
This is what they're here for, so it comes as no surprise that Chicago Bulls cogs Joakim Noah and Derrick Rose both practiced Friday ahead of Saturday's Game 1 against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Both will play, as will Taj Gibson. Kirk Hinrich, who did not practice Friday, is uncertain.
Coach Tom Thibodeau said that Rose and Noah will likely play the minutes in Game 1 that they have seen lately - around 25 to 30.
Much has been made all season about management-imposed minutes restrictions on the Bulls' banged-up stars. But with the playoffs being a different game, it is difficult seeing Thibodeau adhering to that rule late in games.
It will be Rose's first NBA playoff game since April, 28, 2012. The Bulls went 3-1 against the Bucks in the regular season.