Two lackluster performances by the Bulls to open preseason may have emphasized the value of second-year point guard Chris Duhon, who missed the 2 losses with a groin injury.

?One thing that?s been very evident in the first two games is we miss Duhon,? Bulls coach Scott Skiles said. ?There?s no doubt about it. He?s the best we have at running our club and knowing all the situations and being a leader out there. We miss that when he?s gone.?

Duhon returned to practice Thursday and should be able to play in the Bulls? next preseason game, Saturday against Boston at the United Center.

?Towards the end (of practice), I wore out a little bit. It started to ache,? Duhon said. ?Overall, it was a good first step. It felt good to be back out there.?