The Eastern Conference leader, the Philadelphia 76ers, faces the Chicago Bulls for the first time in the 2020-21 NBA season on Friday. The Bulls come into the game on the back of two crucial wins, although they will now face a Sixers side who have dominated the home court so far, winning 12 of 12 matches.
Both sides have some of the league’s key talents, with Zach Lavin looking to power past the Chicago Bulls with Joel Embiid and the strength of the Sixers mean defense.
Chicago Bulls vs Philadelphia 76ers: Injury Update
Chicago bulls
The Chicago Bulls have performed well in their last two games, despite their team being eliminated at this time. Otto Porter Jr., whose future remains unclear, is out with back cramps, as is regular starter Laurie Markannon.
The Finnish forward will miss two to four weeks with a sprained right shoulder and will be a big miss for the Bulls, who have achieved a career-high 19.1 points so far this season.
Chicago’s forward depth took third place with his current injury list as third-year younger forward Chandler Hutchison also dropped out.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers have been disappointed due to their injury this season, although they have maintained their lead at the top of the East. Despite this, star Joel Embiid has tightly disappeared from the back several games, which the Sixers depended on so brilliantly for the win. Cameron spoke after the win over Houston on Wednesday, stating that despite back pain, he wanted to play to ensure victory.
At the time of writing, Embiid is expected to play on Friday, as is Ben Simmons who was potentially upgraded after missing the Philadelphia 76ers game against the Rockets.
In addition to his two superstars, the Philadelphia 76ers are also without longtime absentee Shake Milton.
Chicago Bulls vs. Philadelphia 76ers: Predicted Lineup
Chicago bulls
After winning their last two encounters, the Chicago Bulls are unlikely to change the formula for a win in the Philadelphia 76ers. Considering that this season is somewhat of a developmental year for the Bulls, rookie Patrick Williams has been given 26 runs. He If Zach can form a powerful trio with LaVine and Coby White if the franchise can retain the former.
Lavin is playing the best basketball of his NBA career, averaging 28.5 points, 5.5 rebounds and 5.2 assists. The shooting guard has been the primary offensive option for the Chicago Bulls and the main reason they have been able to reach a respectable record so far.
Wendell Carter Jr.’s starting lineup at the Chicago Bulls has proved that the young center is the decider as their No. 1 rim protector and joins Garrett Temple in the Bulls’ frontcourt.
Philadelphia 76ers
Simmons was potentially upgraded for this fixture, we have assumed that the star guard will play. Simmons, Harris and Embiid have all topped their game so far this season and it seems that Doc Rivers has found a way to get the best from the Philadelphia 76ers star trio.
MBP is a strong favorite for MVP, while Harris is average with career-high scores and a serial third scorer for the Sixers (20.8 per game). Harris was joined on the front court by Danny Green, who has so far disappointed for Philadelphia. Nevertheless, the former La Lakers man needs championship experience if this side is to complete his long-awaited final appearance.
Published on 19 February 2021, 21:17 IST
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