The Chicago Bulls are set to begin a five-game homestand on Friday, aiming to reignite the spark that recently thrust them into the playoff conversation. Facing off against the Washington Wizards, the Bulls are determined to bounce back from a 129-113 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday.
Heading into the game, Chicago has won four of their last six contests. Zach LaVine has been pivotal, scoring at least 30 points in 10 games this season. He continued his scoring surge with a 31-point effort against the Pacers, averaging a team-high 23.3 points per game alongside 4.6 rebounds and 4.5 assists.
However, turnovers have been a thorn in Chicago’s side. The Bulls committed 18 turnovers against Indiana, leading to 17 points, and had a similar issue in their previous meeting against the Wizards on January 1, where they gave up 33 points on 20 turnovers4. Despite LaVine’s 32 points, Chicago fell 125-107 in that game.
Against the Wizards, Coby White scored 17 points, and Nikola Vucevic added 12 points while grabbing 14 rebounds. However, Vucevic’s shooting troubles continued, managing just 5-of-17 from the field.
The Wizards, meanwhile, are looking to end a four-game losing streak. Their latest defeat was a 109-103 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday. Washington, plagued by injuries, missed leading scorers Jordan Poole and Malcolm Brogdon. Poole, who averages 21.8 points per game, is questionable for Friday’s matchup, while Brogdon has been ruled out.
Jared Butler stepped up for the Wizards, scoring a career-high 26 points and adding seven assists in just 20 minutes, while Corey Kispert contributed 23 points off the bench. Richaun Holmes grabbed 11 rebounds in a reserve role.
As the Wizards look to bounce back, the Bulls will aim to utilize their home-court advantage to reclaim their momentum. With both teams seeking vital wins, fans can expect an intense and competitive showdown.
