John Salmons likes Bulls' chances in playoffs

John Salmons is resigned to playing with pain the remainder of this Bulls run, but his left groin felt improved enough Monday for him to practice and get in extra shots afterward.

He even saved one, albeit of a different kind, directed toward those in Cleveland, Boston and Orlando.

"I wouldn't want to play us in the playoffs," the typically reserved Salmons said. "We have a good enough team to beat anybody."

The Bulls' magic number to clinch their fourth playoff spot in five seasons is three and could drop to one Tuesday if they beat the Knicks and the Bobcats lose to a hot 76ers team.

"Everything has come together quickly since the trade," Salmons said.

(chicagotribune.com)