The Chicago Bulls might be reluctant to acknowledge it, but tonight’s game at the United Center carries significant implications.
With just 3.5 games separating the Memphis Grizzlies and the Bulls in the ongoing race to improve draft lottery odds, a defeat this evening would greatly benefit Chicago. They’re also scheduled to face each other once more in the remaining 15 games, offering the Bulls another chance to narrow that gap.
Despite the tanking implications, it’s improbable that coach Billy Donovan is focused on draft lottery chances. He consistently promotes a winning mentality, which has ironically put the Bulls’ lottery prospects at risk given the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent struggles. The team plans to deploy most of its key players, including fully available Josh Giddey and Matas Buzelis. Both players have been performing exceptionally well lately; Giddey has recorded three triple-doubles in his last four outings, while Buzelis has scored over 20 points in six of his past eight games.
Considering these factors, it certainly seems the Bulls are poised for a win tonight. However, we had similar expectations before the game against the Sacramento Kings!
Viewing Information
Opponents: Memphis Grizzlies (23-43) vs. Chicago Bulls (27-40)
Venue: United Center
Time: 7:00 PM CT
Broadcast: Chicago Sports Network
Anticipated Starting Rosters
Chicago Bulls
1. Josh Giddey
2. Tre Jones
3. Matas Buzelis
4. Leonard Miller
5. Guerschon Yabusele
Memphis Grizzlies
1. Cam Spencer
2. Jaylen Wells
3. Cedric Coward
4. Taylor Hendricks
5. Olivier-Maxence Prosper
Current Injury Status
Although listed as questionable earlier, Collin Sexton is set to miss his fourth consecutive game with a leg injury. Isaac Okoro is also sidelined and hasn’t played since his unexpected exclusion prior to Chicago’s victory against the Golden State Warriors. As their top defender, Okoro’s absence could undeniably pose a challenge when facing the skilled rookie Cedric Coward and the inconsistent Jaylen Wells.
Chicago Bulls
Nick Richards – LIKELY TO PLAY (back)
Lachlan Olbrich – LIKELY TO PLAY (calf)
Collin Sexton – UNAVAILABLE (leg)
Anfernee Simons – UNAVAILABLE (wrist)
Jaden Ivey – UNAVAILABLE (knee)
Isaac Okoro – UNAVAILABLE (knee)
Zach Collins – SEASON ENDED (wrist)
Noa Essengue – SEASON ENDED (shoulder)
Memphis Grizzlies
Walter Clayton Jr. – UNCERTAIN (ankle)
GG Jackson – UNLIKELY TO PLAY (foot)
Ty Jerome – UNLIKELY TO PLAY (shoulder)
Santi Aldama – SITTING OUT (injury management)
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – SITTING OUT (finger)
Brandon Clarke – SITTING OUT (calf)
Zach Edey – SITTING OUT (ankle)
Ja Morant – SITTING OUT (elbow)
Scotty Pippen Jr. – SITTING OUT (toe)
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