NBA: Bulls point guard Hinrich out with back stiffness

CHICAGO — Bulls point guard Kirk Hinrich has been ruled out for the second straight game due to back stiffness.

Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau says Kirk Hinrich (back) is out vs. Magic. #ORLvsCHI

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 16, 2013

Hinrich also missed Chicago's 99-77 loss to Toronto on Saturday night (Sunday, PHL time). He is averaging 8.6 points in 21 games this season.

Thibodeau on waiving James: “We just wanted to keep some flexibility as we move forward. Mike’s a great guy who did a great job for us.”

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) December 16, 2013

Coach Tom Thibodeau says he's hoping Hinrich will be able to return soon. Marquis Teague is expected to start against Orlando.

The Bulls also made a move on Monday (Tuesday, PHL time), waiving guard Mike James. He played 37,5 minutes over seven games with Chicago. - AP