--G Keyon Dooling gives thanks to the Orlando coaches who advised him to improve his three-point shooting as a way of improving his chances of getting more playing time. Dooling worked on his range over the summer -- and the results are his career best three-point shooting. Dooling is sixth in the league on triples at .443 (70-of-158).

--C Brook Lopez is compiling the finest season ever by a Nets rookie center. The No. 10 pick has compiled 12 double-doubles, three short of the Net rookie center record of 15 by Mike Gminski in 1980-81. Lopez also has scored 20 or more points nine times, surpassing Gminski's mark of seven. Additionally, Lopez has 109 blocks to threaten Kenyon Martin's Nets' rookie record (regardless of position) of 113.

--F Jarvis Hayes returned from a two-game absence caused by partially torn left thumb ligaments. It figured Hayes might wait until Sunday -- the Nets have three days off -- but he insisted on playing Wednesday against the Bulls.

"We're one game behind Chicago," Hayes reasoned. "I have all summer to rest."

Hayes played 21 minutes, took three shots and made one. He added three steals and two rebounds.

MEDICAL WATCH:

--F Eduardo Najera remained out with what the team is calling a right lower abdominal strain. Najera fears he may have suffered a hernia and might require surgery. He will be re-evaluated Monday.