Del Negro: Thomas will be in Bulls' rotation

By K.C. Johnson

INDIANAPOLIS -- One day after not even guaranteeing Tyrus Thomas would be ahead of Chris Richard in the Bulls' rotation, coach Vinny Del Negro said Thomas would be his first big man off the bench Tuesday night against the Pacers.

"Tyrus and John (Salmons) normally come in about the five or six minute mark in the first quarter," Del Negro said. "That won't change."

Del Negro said Richard would spell Brad Miller in short stretches depending on matchups.

Thomas didn't show much reaction when informed of Del Negro's plans.

"I'm ready to play hard," he said.