Bulls G Michael Carter-Williams (knee, wrist) expects to play Monday vs. Pacers

SAN ANTONIO -- Chicago Bulls guard Michael Carter-Williams expects to play on Monday against the Indiana Pacers after missing the past two months because of left knee and left wrist injuries. Carter-Williams will meet with team doctors on Monday, and if he is cleared, he will play.

"That's the plan, I believe," Carter-Williams said before Sunday's 119-100 loss to the San Antonio Spurs. "So hopefully we follow through with that."

Carter-Williams, who was acquired from the Milwaukee Bucks for Tony Snell during the preseason, suffered the injuries during an Oct. 31 win over the Brooklyn Nets.

Carter-Williams was initially expected to miss four to six weeks because of the bone bruise and the wrist sprain, but the wrist did not heal quickly and he had to have it casted. He missed an additional two weeks after getting the cast off and going through more rehab before returning to the floor. Carter-Williams has been taking contact in practice for the past few days and isn't sure at this point whether he will be placed on a minutes restriction whenever he does return.

"I just want to bring positive energy," Carter-Williams said. "When I'm out there, be a leader on the floor -- do the little things."

Carter-Williams' presence on the floor should give the Bulls' bench a much-needed lift. The reserves have struggled all season to make an impact in games, and Carter-Williams' defensive presence will allow Bulls coach Fred Hoiberg some more options.

"I've definitely been itching to get back on the floor," Carter-Williams said. "So I can't wait."