Tim Thomas was conspicuous in his absence from Monday?s loss to San Antonio. The 6-foot-10 forward was the only Bulls player in uniform who did not see action.

?I think he?s healthy,? coach Scott Skiles said following Tuesday?s practice at the Berto Center. ?It?s just that we?re playing at a level right now in practice and in games I haven?t seen Tim get to yet. It?s pretty much up to Tim (whether he plays).?

Thomas, 28, arrived from the New York Knicks in the Eddy Curry trade with a long-standing reputation as an underachiever and a poor defender. When Thomas? apparent wealth of basketball talent was brought up, Skiles had an interesting answer.

?There are lots of talents,? Skiles said. ?Working really hard and being committed I think are talents, too. It?s not that Tim hasn?t. But we?ve got several other guys that are at a level that so far Tim hasn?t gotten to.?

Thomas didn?t get worked up when told of Skiles? comments. He had a slow start in training camp because of two ankle injuries.

?That?s his opinion,? Thomas said. ?I?m a mentally strong person. Things like that are not going to bother me. I?m ready to play. I feel good.?