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One test for Derrick Rose will be Wednesday in Charlotte, the first back to back since Rose left at halftime in the second of the back to back in Denver last week. Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau said before Tuesday’s game, predictably, he was only concerned about what might occur in the next few moments. But Thibodeau said he was pleased with what he’s seen from Rose.

“Building, good,” said Thibodeau. “That’s all we want him to do, keep concentrating on the improvement. String games together. Game by game, practice by practice. Just keep building. I think he’s gaining confidence. He’s been knocked to the floor a couple of times. He’s bounced right up. He’s playing with confidence right now. We’ve just got to keep moving forward.”

Thibodeau did concede even he has been surprised by the development of Jimmy Butler, who came into the game ninth in the league in scoring and in the top 20 in steals.

Said Thibodeau: “I would say he’s the one guy who has exceeded my expectations. I thought he would have a terrific season because on what I saw and heard from him this summer. I felt confident knowing each year he improved a lot. To say I thought it would be as good as it has been, I never thought that. But nothing he does surprises me because of the way he approaches things.”

Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle added he’s been impressed with Butler: “He’s the leading scorer in a team up near the top of the East. He’s plus nine points from last year. That’s a huge rise in production. He’s made a phenomenal quantum leap and I don‘t see him slowing down. He’s made himself more a focal point of their offense.”

Taj Gibson remained out with his sprained ankle and Doug McDermott joined him with a swollen knee. McDermott said he could not recall any specific injury, but said he banged knees in the Portland game. He said his knee swelled after the return from Brooklyn Sunday.

“Very random,” said McDermott. “(They) just checked me out, threw ice on me and said (sit out). If I feel better tomorrow (I’ll play). It’s really nothing serious at all. Out of the blue, really haven’t had any injuries. It’s already better than it was the first day. I didn’t even know what caused it, so I knew it was minor. Just a swollen knee. It feels way better than it did yesterday, but (we) don’t want to risk anything.”