Thomas wants the starting spot

Speaking calmly yet passionately and without rancor or even a hint of unprofessionalism, Tyrus Thomas eloquently detailed why he should be the Bulls' starting power forward.

Which meant, of course, that Thomas wasn't Monday night at the United Center as the Bulls fell to Orlando 101-98 in their next-to-last exhibition game.

"I don't even think it should be questionable from what I've contributed to this team last season and what I did throughout camp," Thomas said. "But ( Vinny Del Negro's) the guy who makes the decisions. Whatever decision he makes, I have to go play."