Pau Gasol (right knee swelling) will be a game-time decision when the Bulls try to continue their playoff drive against the Sacramento Kings at the United Center on Monday night, coach Fred Hoiberg said after the team’s morning shootaround.
‘‘He got a really good workout in [Sunday], played some live two-on-two,’’ Hoiberg said. ‘‘And he responded well, didn’t have any swelling or pain in his knee. So we’ll make a decision tonight and see how he responded to shootaround. We’ll be careful with it if he does play.’’
This will be the third game of a four-game homestand against slumping teams. The Bulls, who have the won the first two, are aware that they need to make the most of these opportunities.
‘‘We talk about it,’’ Hoiberg said. ‘‘Everybody knows what’s at stake right now. We had to come back after that Washington game and take care of home. We’ve done that the first two games. We’ve got two more and we hit the road for a tough stretch. We lost some opportunities early in the season at home. There’s no denying that. So you have to protect homecourt, especially at this time of the season.’’
Limiting DeMarcus Cousins will be a high priority. Cousins scored 24 points and matched a season high with 20 rebounds in the Kings’ win at New York on Sunday.
‘‘He’s the most versatile big man in the game right now,’’ Hoiberg said. ‘‘He can shoot the 3. He has a great crossover dribble. He’s a good passer, excellent rebounder and unbelievable size and mobility. He’s a very tough cover for anybody one-on-one.’’
Follow me on Twitter @HerbGould.