Otto Porter Jr. is out indefinitely with a sprained left foot that knocked him out of the second half of Wednesday's victory in Atlanta. Coach Jim Boylen said Chandler Hutchison will start Saturday against the Rockets in Porter's place.
"It’s a soft tissue injury, so it’s something that’s difficult to put a timetable on," Boylen said. "We’re not taking any chances with him, or anybody. We’ll manage him accordingly and support him in the appropriate way."
Porter scored 22 points in the Bulls' home victory over the Pistons and posted 13 in the first half of the victory over the Hawks, helping set a tone for a dominant offensive night by the Bulls. Beyond his importance, wing depth is a serious issue for the Bulls, particularly with Denzel Valentine scheduled to play for the Windy City Bulls in the G League.
Past Hutchison, it's possible Boylen reverts to a three-guard lineup he used before Hutchison's return from a strained hamstring. Hutchison has averaged 7 points and 3.5 rebounds in his first two games back.
"His length and athleticism is something that helps us," Boylen said. "He does have a feel for how we want to play in the multihandler system. He can guard multiple positions. I think in general his versatility is a big asset for us. He’s very coachable and takes great ownership of his play. We all know he’s a high character player."
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