Coach Fred Hoiberg still believes in Denzel Valentine’s future

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OKLAHOMA CITY — Projecting Denzel Valentine’s place in the NBA is still up for debate, but Valentine found out Wednesday what he’s not.

He’s still not a starter.

Coach Fred Hoiberg opted to go with Quincy Pondexter as the starting small forward, a spot held by Paul Zipser until the Bulls’ loss Saturday in San Antonio.

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“We need a playmaker and scorer in that second unit,’’ Hoiberg said. “Denzel has done a nice job in that role.’’

Hoiberg said he explained that to Valentine, and he took the decision well.

“He understands,’’ Hoiberg said. “He knows that we need his playmaking in that second unit. You look back at that Orlando game, we played through him the entire fourth quarter. He knows when he plays simple basketball, good things happen. He knows that’s a good spot for him.’’

He does know that . . . for now, at least.

“I mean, of course, at some point I want to start in my NBA career, but this is my role right now, so I’ll try my best to be the best I can be in that role,’’ Valentine said.

At least Valentine is being counted on to finish games for the Bulls. He’s often on the floor with the closing unit.

“Finishing is always the most fun part of the game,’’ Valentine said.

“Start off the game sometimes, you’re just getting into it, but if I come in off the bench and provide good minutes and finish the game, it’s like getting the same satisfaction as starting.

“Oh, I’ll take this any day over what went on last year. Coach sees, he’s trusting in me, he’s putting me out there on the floor, so I just have to keep playing hard.’’

This latest decision, however, brought up an old issue: Was the former Michigan State star worth a lottery pick in the 2016 draft? He was selected 14th overall by the Bulls.

Hoiberg seemed confident that there are only better days ahead for the swingman.

“I think the big thing with Denzel and what he showed in college is he’s a very versatile player,’’ Hoiberg said. “And I think he has shown some of those qualities, especially this year, on a young team where he’s really taken over that lead playmaking role.

‘‘Even though he isn’t bringing the ball up the floor and initiating the offense, we are running a lot through him. And he’s made good decisions for the most part.

“Denzel has a bright future. There’s no doubt about that.’’

Zach attack

Guard Zach LaVine once again traveled with the Bulls for the game against the Thunder, and he let it be known that his first full practice with contact is scheduled for Monday in Los Angeles.

LaVine guessed mid-to-late December for his Bulls debut as he continues to ramp up the activity in his recovery from surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

Tip-ins

Forward Nikola Mirotic stayed in Chicago and got in a workout at the Advocate Center on Wednesday afternoon.

◆ Guard David Nwaba was still experiencing pain in his injured right ankle.

The timeline for his return is looking closer to four weeks instead of two weeks.

Follow me on Twitter @suntimes_hoops.

Email: jcowley@suntimes.com

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