The Bulls' starting point guard Kirk Hinrich left at the end of the third quarter with a thigh injury in Game 1 of Chicago's Eastern Conference First Round series against the Nets, and he is questionable to return to the game, according to the ESPN broadcast.
Kirk Hinrich injury: Bulls’ G hurts ankle vs. Nets, return questionable
The Bulls lost their starting point guard to a thigh injury as they struggle to keep up with a high-octane Nets offense.
Hinrich had played 28 minutes compared to just eight for backup point guard Nate Robinson at the time of the injury, as Tom Thibodeau had opted for the more defensive-minded guard. The Nets shot 60 percent in the first half and dominated in the paint.
Considering the Nets have held a 20-point lead since late in the second quarter, it is highly unlikely Hinrich will return for the rest of this game. The focus will shift to his availability for Game 2 on Monday.
Other options the Bulls have at point guard are Marco Belinelli and rookie Marquis Teague. The Bulls have not ruled out a return from Derrick Rose but it is unlikely he will make an appearance in the playoffs.
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