Butler could play tonight for the Bulls

MILWAUKEE – Help arrived in Milwaukee for the Bulls.

How much help will it actually be? That’s yet to be determined.

Point guard D.J. Augustin is set to make his debut with his new team this evening, and Jimmy Butler [turf toe] will be a game-time decision to return after missing the last 11 games. Butler went through a full practice on Thursday, and again participated in the Friday shootaround.

“Yeah, I’m moving a lot closer,’’ Butler said. “Moving a lot better on it, jumping, pushing off, all that good stuff. Now it’s just going through shootaround, see how I feel.’’

Coach Tom Thibodeau said he wasn’t sure how he would use Butler minutes-wise, but anything Butler could give the Bulls would be a positive. Especially since the Bulls are 2-9 without Butler.

“I’m not going to say that I’m the reason we’ll win games, but I feel like I can help in some aspects,’’ Butler said. “If it’s defense, if it’s scoring, I just want to be out there and see if I do make a difference. That’s why I want to get back as soon as possible.’’

As far as Augustin, he was getting some extra coaching in the morning, learning a few packages, and then Thibodeau will see what the 26-year-old can add to the mix.

“He can shoot,’’ Thibodeau said. “And we’re in need of shooting. He has some experience. He’s relatively young. He’s done a little bit of everything. He has started, come off the bench. He has played in some playoff games. Hopefully this will be a good opportunity for him.’’

And while Augustin can shoot, he’s not really known for his defense. Thibodeau wasn’t concerned.

“In this league, you can’t rely on one particular person to do it all,’’ Thibodeau said. “You have to be tied together. But I think he has the capability of being a good, solid defender.’’

“It’s just a matter of getting a rhythm and flow of the game,’’ Augustin said. “In Indiana, my minutes were kind of shaky. This year, it was what it was. Hopefully, I can get some minutes and that confidence going.’’

Luol Deng [left Achilles] did not participate in the Thursday workout, and was doubtful to play against the Bucks tonight.