Throughout their first 19 games the Chicago Bulls (11-8) are still trying to find their identity and balance their offense with their defense.

Luckily, Chicago received good news. Since his injury during the first week of training camp in September, forward Carlos Boozer would participate in his first full practice Nov. 29. After a successful full contact practice, speculation began: when would Boozer make his season debut. Coach Tom Thibodeau and Boozer targeted the Orlando game, barring any setbacks, and they kept their word.

In 22 minutes of play Boozer scored five points and hauled in two rebounds; this was not the debut anyone could have predicted. The Bulls lost the game 107-78. Chicago had to regroup and bring their best to Boston, but they lost that game as well. The Bulls seemed to still be dwelling on the Orlando loss as Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo took advantage by attacking Boozer early and often.

Boozer admitted he was thinking about the injury and didn’t want to aggravate it when attacking the paint. He finished the night with 12 points and two rebounds in a 104-92 loss to the Celtics.

After two lackluster performances by the Bulls and Boozer, NBA critics questioned Chicago’s potency in the Eastern Conference. Some just wondered how long it would take Thibodeau to find the right line-up. Others said it would take up to 15-20 games for Boozer to be back to his old self: it only took about three or four.

Boozer scored 25 points in an 119-114 overtime win against Houston Dec. 4. He ditched the protective brace he was wearing on his right hand and looked comfortable on the court.

Boozer then one-upped that performance with his first, of probably many, double ...