Then Hoiberg took a stand that affirmed his autonomy, not only benching point guard Rajon Rondo three games ago but banishing him from the rotation. The Bulls are a surprising 2-1 since, beating two Eastern Conference playoff teams, the Hornets and the Cavaliers. They have played with better pace offensively and appeared more athletic defensively. Rondo's absence only has made the Bulls grow fonder of replacement Michael Carter-Williams. Rondo hasn't played since Dec. 30 against the Pacers when he started but logged only 10 minutes.