Pacers’ Collison to play in Game 3

INDIANAPOLIS -- Pacers guard Darren Collison, who sprained his left ankle in Monday’s 96-90 Game 2 loss to the Bulls at the United Center, will play in Game 3 Thursday night.

“I feel fine, so I’m going to give it a go,’’ Collison told the Tribune. “I’m confident I can go out there and play.

“I can’t be hesitant right now. I just have to go out there and play. I’ll be OK.’’

Before exiting Monday’s game late in the first half, Collison had eight points, four rebounds, and an assist. The ankle might keep him from breaking down defenders like he did in Game 1.

Pacers coach Frank Vogel said the decision to play and start Collison was a mutual decision between himself and his point guard. Vogel said he wouldn’t hesitate to pull Collison if he’s not moving well enough.

‘We’ll just monitor it as the game goes on,’’ Vogel said.

Expect the Bulls to attack Collison early to see if he can move on the defensive end. Offensively, Collison can be a difference-maker when 100 percent. But Vogel is not planning to scale back the offensive game plan just because Collison is coming off an injury.

“I may not run the first play of the game for Darren,’’ Vogel joked. “I may let him get a little warmed up, first.’’