Deng, Britain's captain who led the country to the European Championships finals for the first time since 1981, has not played since February 28 because of a stress fracture in his right tibia.

 

He said he hasn't been able to run hard since the injury, and struggled recently when trying to do more.

 

Deng said: "I increased the workout a little bit and had a great deal of pain.

 

"I'm just going to try to be off everything for a little bit and try it again."

 

Deng, who is averaging 14.1 points and 6.0 rebounds in 49 games, said he will try to work out early next week, but given the Bulls' regular season ends next Wednesday, he's probably out until the play-offs, at least.

 

Deng said: "I feel like even if I'm capable of getting back to play for five minutes or 10 minutes, whatever, that could help.

 

"Those guys are playing a lot of minutes."

 

Bulls coach Vinny Del Negro said the team is preparing as if Deng will not be back.

 

He said: "That's been the mind-set all along, because I know how much pain the guy is in.

 

"He's been working and was feeling a little bit better and then not feeling as well.

 

"If there's a way to get him back, we'd love to have him back."

 

Deng has promised that he will still be available for Britain at the European Championships in Poland in September, even though Bulls officials want him to rest.