Chicago Bulls vs Indiana Pacers odds, game-day preview

The Chicago Bulls are on a five-game losing streak and face another tough test tonight. Here are the latest odds and things to watch for.

As if riding out the toughest losing streak of the season wasn’t enough, the Chicago Bulls recently received news that their most complete player, Wendell Carter Jr., will be out 4-6 weeks due to a sprained ankle. It’s not time to give up, though. The Bulls still have a lot to play for.

Tonight, the Indiana Pacers, who are going through struggles of their own, will step onto the United Center floor to take on the Carter-less Bulls.

The frontcourt battle

The Pacers have a powerful frontcourt duo. Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis are an absolute handful. Sabonis is questionable for tonight’s game, though. His final status will be the biggest difference-maker tonight.

Without Carter, the Bulls’ frontcourt is extremely thin. When Thaddeus Young and Lauri Markkanen play together, the absence of interior strength is noticeable. Daniel Gafford is the only rim-protector on the Bulls’ roster now, but he’s still learning how to play at the NBA level. He’s not quite ready to be the lead anchor on defense.

If Sabonis plays, I can’t imagine a world where the Bulls win tonight’s game. The frontcourt battle would be incredibly lopsided in Indiana’s favor.

Bulls odds against Pacers

The following odds are courtesy of The Action Network and are current as of 11:15 am CT.

Until Sabonis’ status for tonight is solidified, it’s nearly impossible to predict how the game will go. I’m expecting the line to change as tip-off nears. If Sabonis is able to play, the Pacers will likely become heavy favorites. If he isn’t able to suit up, the Bulls might find themselves as favorites heading into game time.

Tip-off is set for 7 pm CT.