"Carlos Boozer shot 33 percent from the field in Game 2. One reason why: He's not playing at anywhere close to 100 percent.

Asked about his injured right big toe after the 86-73 victory Wednesday night, Boozer replied: "It's still sore. Still hurting."

How much is it affecting his lift?

"A lot," Boozer replied. "A lot."

Boozer did manage to grab 11 rebounds but scored just eight points on 4-for-12 shooting. After Josh Smith swatted a third-quarter offering, the Bulls' power forward responded by yapping at him. Coach Tom Thibodeau pulled Boozer from the game but sounded sympathetic afterward.

"Carlos is giving us everything he has," Thibodeau said. "He's nicked up. His rebounding has been huge. His offense will come around."

Joakim Noah defended Boozer even more passionately."