This game is a preview of the Eastern Conference playoffs. These two teams, along with defending NBA Champions, appear to be the top three contenders to represent the East in the NBA Finals. The Indiana Pacers have started out this season incredibly strong with Paul George averaging 27 points a game. Tonight, they host the Chicago Bulls and look to start 5-0 for the first time in franchise history. They will be without both Danny Granger and George Hill.
The Bulls have gotten out to a sluggish start and look to avoid losing three of their four first games. Joakim Noah, who dealt with an injury during preseason, is only averaging six points so far. Last year, he was averaging about 12 points a game. They do have point guard Derrick Rose, but the Bulls, including Rose, have not shot the ball well. They are only shooting 23 percent from the 3-point range while opponents are averaging almost double that. However, Rose has done well against the Pacers so this could be the boost he needs. Unfortunately, Paul George also has good career numbers against the Bulls.
The Bulls are in a really serious shooting slump right now. Their only win came against the Knicks and it took Derrick Rose to make a very difficult shot to win the game. The Pacers, on the other hand, are rolling. Despite losing two of their best players, they look like they are ready to dethrone the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Bulls are still adjusting to having Rose back, and I do not believe they will beat Indiana tonight. Bulls vs. Pacers- who you takin?
