DEERFIELD, Ill. -- Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng has a torn ligament in his left wrist and will be "out for a while," according to coach Tom Thibodeau.

Thibodeau described Deng as "week to week" and said no surgery is planned, but it is an option.

"That's always a possibility," Thibodeau said. "The fact is it's his left wrist. After consulting with the doctors, he feels this is the best course of action. So obviously we're pleased that he doesn't have to have the surgery."

An upbeat Deng tried to put a positive spin on the news.

"I know it's a bad injury, and it sounds terrible, but I'll be fine," Deng said.

Asked why he doesn't have surgery now, Deng said the 16-3 Bulls' title chances play a role in his decision.