By Nick Friedell (ESPN)Role for 2010-11 Bulls: Thomas is expected to play the role that Brad Miller played last season. He may not have the outside shooting capability that Miller possessed, but he is a veteran big man who can still pull down five rebounds a night and play solid defense when needed. He played well for the Milwaukee Bucks during last year's first-round playoff series and will be expected to do the same here in Chicago. The veteran will be asked to play the role of mentor to Joakim Noah and Omer Asik as each continues to find his way in the league.
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Best-case scenario: Thomas fills the void Miller left in the locker room and becomes a confidant to Noah. He gives the Bulls 10-12 solid minutes off the bench every night and works with Asik to ease his transition into the NBA. The veteran also passes on words of wisdom to young players such as Derrick Rose, Taj Gibson and James Johnson, becoming another coach on the floor. When the playoffs come around, Thomas is at his best, providing quality minutes and hitting the occasional open jumper.
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