Bulls vs. 76ers preview and thread: looking for a Sixers split

In both of their games so far this week, the Chicago Bulls have found themselves in the same predicament: Down big in the second half on the road. But each time, they showed resiliency and fought back. They outscored the Celtics by 28 to win on Monday and then nearly came back against the Sixers on Wednesday but fell short in the final minutes.

Chicago is never truly out of a game thanks to their defense and lethal ability to score in transition opportunities. However, they need to have better starts to their games. They are in the bottom ten of the league in average points scored in the quarter (25.0) and 1st half (53.5). Playing better in first halves means more chances to control the game heading into crunch time. Having scored just 13 points on Wednesday, the Bulls bench will also have to play better as well.

The Philadelphia 76ers have already beaten the Bulls once this season and are sitting with a record of 7-2, best in the Eastern Conference. They are coming into this one on a five game win streak. Despite losing at the half to the Pistons, they bounced back to win 109-98. Seth Curry dropped 23 points while Tyrese Maxey had 20. Joel Embiid nearly had a double double of 20 points and nine rebounds.

Philadelphia will be even more short handed than the first game as in addition to Tobias Harris they will also be missing Mattise Thybulle due to COVID protocols. Thybulle’s absence will certainly be felt on the defensive end for the 76ers as he gave Zach LaVine numerous problems in their matchup on Wednesday.

Game Time: 7PM CT

TV: NBC Sports Chicago

Injury Report:

There are no real changes to the Chicago injury report. Once again, LaVine’s name is on there but he’s listed as available. Coby White, Patrick Williams, Devon Dotson, and Marko Simonovic are all still listed as out.

In addition to Harris and Thybulle, the 76ers also two other key players in their rotation on the injury list. Danny Green (left hamstring tightness) and Furkan Korkmaz (right wrist soreness) are listed as questionable. Isaiah Joe is also in health and safety protocols while Aaron Henry and Jaden Spring are out as he’s with Philadelphia’s G-League affiliate. Grant Riller is still out after suffering a meniscus tear last month and Ben Simmons is still away from the team.

Odds: Chicago is a four point favorite in this one but you can find them at -3.5. Meanwhile for the over/under, the total is set at 215.5 at most places but you can also find 216 as well. (All info via the Action Network)