Carlos Boozer played 35 minutes in Saturday’s 99-96 Bulls win over the Miami Heat and had 12 points and 12 rebounds, his 16th double double out of 25 games played in a season in which he is averaging 20.1 points and 10.1 rebounds per game — averaging a double double.
It was announced today that Boozer sprained his ankle in the fourth quarter last night — what, is it contagious with LeBron James hanging around with a sprained ankle? — and he did not accompany the Bulls on their flight to Memphis. He won’t play against the Grizzlies in their holiday matinee game Monday.
No word on how long Boozer might be out; the Bulls are in a heavy part of their schedule, with five games in eight days beginning tomorrow. According to the Bulls website, Boozer was in a walking boot when he left the United Center last night.
Taj Gibson will return to the starting lineup, replacing Boozer; he’s day-to-day. (But aren’t we all?)