Bulls to sign Lindsey Hunter

The Bulls decided to add some help in the backcourt after all and signed veteran Lindsey Hunter today, prior to hosting Dallas at the United Center.

The 6-foot-2 Hunter, who turns 38 on Dec. 3, will begin his 16th NBA season once he signs with the Bulls. He spent the past five years with the Pistons, averaging 2.4 points in 24 games last season.

Originally drafted as a point guard, Hunter became more of a 3-point shooting specialist early in his career, then in recent years turned into a savvy defensive stopper.

The Bulls will be without Kirk Hinrich until mid-February because of a torn ligament in his right thumb. Larry Hughes has been out with a dislocated right shoulder, but is expected to return Saturday against Indiana, if not sooner.

Hunter doesn't figure to play many minutes for the Bulls, but they could use a veteran presence on a team whose oldest player is Michael Ruffin, 31.

General manager John Paxson is in San Diego attending his son Ryan's graduation from Marine basic training. Congratulations to Ryan Paxson -- who was roaming the courts of the North Suburban Conference a few years ago for Lake Forest H.S. -- for his impressive achievement.