C.J. Watson started at point guard for the Bulls in place of Derrick Rose, who missed his sixth game of the season because of injuries.

Rose has been suffering from back spasms. Earlier Friday, he said his back was stiff but he expected to play against the Bobcats.

While speaking with the media before the game, coach Tom Thibodeau said he hadn't spoken to Rose or the team's trainer and therefore he didn't know Rose's status for the game. Rose was originally listed as a starter for the Bulls but later scratched.