Derrick Rose participates in full-contact practice; Carlos Boozer misses game

Derrick Rose's return is getting closer. ESPN Chicago reported that D-Rose is participating in full contact practices and "and the only thing left in his return from ACL surgery is putting in more time and then getting acclimated to a game situation."

"He can do all the cutting, he can do shooting, he can go off the dribble," Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau told reporters. "So it's just a matter of him getting acclimated to playing in a game situation."

Rose is targeting a return around the all-star break. Expect the Bulls to treat Rose with kid gloves. 
Carlos Boozer missed Wednesday's game with a sore hamstring, according to Bulls beat writer K.C. Johnson. Taj Gibson started and scored 14 points with nine rebounds, two assists, a steal and two blocks in 34 minutes. Gibson is a strong spot start with Boozer out.

Jimmy Butler cotinued to cut into Rip Hamilton's minutes. Butler played 27 strong minutes going for 18 points (8-12 FG, 1-2 FT), a three, six rebounds and two steals. Hamilton scored 10 points and dished three assists.

After starting 123 straight regular-season games, Carlos Boozer sits with sore right hamstring. Taj Gibson starts vs. Bucks. #Bulls
— K.C Johnson (@KCJHoop) January 31, 2013