Even if Rip Hamilton is convinced he's ready to return to the court coach Tom Thibodeau may not let him.

Thibs said before Sunday's game with the Thunder that he is going to be extra careful with the veteran shooting guard who is returning from his third injury this season.

He said Hamilton's availability would be a game-time decision because he wanted to talk with Hamilton after warm ups.

"I've just got to be convinced," Thibs said. "He thinks he's ready. I just want to make sure we're smart."

Hamilton has missed 36 games this season with groin, thigh and shoulder injuries. He has been practicing with team and has been able to stay in shape while letting his shoulder heal, which hasn't been the case for Derrick Rose, who will miss his 10 straight game with a groin strain.

"I feel good about Rip because Rip has been practicing," Thibs said. "He has no problems with his lower body. The thing is the contact part of it. I just want to make sure from that aspect of it. But for all the lower body injuries he's fully healthy. That's very encouraging.

"Derrick each day is doing more and more so he's moving along the way we anticipated."