"The wait for an opponent is over. The wait for their starting power forward is not.

As the Bulls began preparations Friday for their Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Hawks, which begins Monday at the United Center, Carlos Boozer skipped practice because of his painful turf toe condition.

Boozer, who suffered the injury to his right big toe in Tuesday's close-out victory over the Pacers, underwent an MRI exam that confirmed the original diagnosis. Turf toe occurs when there is a vigorous upward bending of the big toe, stretching and damaging the ligaments.

With two practices and one shootaround remaining until Game 1 against the Hawks, the Bulls likely will take a conservative approach with Boozer, who officially is listed as questionable and day-to-day. If he can't play Monday, Kurt Thomas or Taj Gibson would start.

"It's hard to say, but I'm thinking that he will be able to (play)," coach Tom Thibodeau said. "He had some discomfort, but it's gotten better each day. He's getting quite a bit of treatment and rest. He's doing some lifting and things like that.

"We've been through so many different scenarios all season. We had the stretch where Carlos was out. We had the stretch where Jo (Noah) was out. I've said all along: We feel very good about our bench."

Most teammates expect Boozer to play. Despite his much-publicized struggles against the Pacers, Boozer fought through consistent early foul trouble to average 10 points and 10.2 rebounds.

"We're a better team when Carlos is on the floor," Luol Deng said. "No matter who we play, Carlos is always on their radar. Having him is a big advantage for us.""