Kirk Hinrich expected to miss 1-2 weeks

November 30, 2009 -- Chicago Bulls guard Kirk Hinrich was examined this morning by Bulls head team physician Dr. Brian Cole and hand specialists Dr. John Fernandez and Dr. Marc Cohen of Midwest Orthopedics at Rush University. Their examination confirmed the earlier diagnosis of a left thumb sprain. He is expected to miss 1-2 weeks.

Del Negro raised the possibility of Kirk Hinrich returning from his sprained left thumb Saturday against the Raptors, which Hinrich also targeted earlier this week. Hinrich shot some but didn't practice Thursday, and playing Saturday is a long shot.

As for Kirk Hinrich, coach Vinny Del Negro had hinted he could return from his sprained left thumb Saturday. That won't happen.

"He probably said that because I was optimistic," Hinrich said. "I've been shooting every day. But I still can't handle the ball. Plus, if it gets hit, I'd be set back."