The Chicago Bulls will take on the Rockets for the second time this season. In the first matchup of the season, the Rockets got the 118-113 win last month. Which was their second win of the season. But the Bulls are coming off a great home win against the Los Angeles Lakers 115-110. While the Rockets are coming off a 116-107 win over the Detroit Pistons.
Keys To Bulls Getting Win
Keep Involving Vucevic
Nikola Vucevic, in December, has been averaging 17.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, and shooting 38.2% from the field. But the Bulls have sometimes gone away from spreading the floor with Vucevic three-point ability. If the Bulls get Vucevic involved early with some pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop action, that will help bring a win against a young Rockets team. This season Vucevic is averaging below 41% from the field for the first time in his entire career. Vucevic can not be afraid to take the easy shots in the paint.
Paint Defense
The Bulls last night allowed 56 points in the paint against the Lakers. With Derrick Jones being out and not having the ability to go small-ball against the Rockets, Nikola Vucevic and back-up Tony Bradley need to step up. Vucevic only averages one block per game, and Bradley averages 0.5 blocks per game. Christian Wood will be the best scorer for the Rockets and has gotten most of his points from the paint against his opponents.
Next Man Up
The Bulls will be without five players, including star Zach Lavine. Most players being out are still stuck in the NBA’s health and safety protocols. So what does that mean? Everybody must play their new role and get a win against a team that could surprise you. Some names to look for from the Bulls include Tyler Cook, who played significant minutes last night against the Lakers. Also, Alfonzo Mckinnie played 17 minutes and, most importantly, Coby White. White needs to become the new six-man on the Bulls.
Game Prediction
The Bulls bench production will be crucial for tonight’s game against the Rockets. But with the Rockets not having their top two scorers of Jalen Green and Kevin Porter, I believe in the Bulls getting the win. Don’t forget the Bulls should be motivated because of their result against the Rockets last month. Expect DeRozan to score above 25 points and lead this team to a win short-handed.
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