Preview: San Antonio Spurs at Chicago Bulls – Game #27
Victor Wembanyama will likely return to try to help the Spurs get a win (Photo via Twitter)
The San Antonio Spurs will attempt to get back on the winning track tonight against the Chicago Bulls. After losing 18 straight contests, the Spurs beat the Los Angeles Lakers. Unfortunately, San Antonio has now lost two straight games after falling to the New Orleans Pelicans (see the Grades) and most recently the Milwaukee Bucks (see the Grades).
At 4-22, the Spurs have the worst record in the Western Conference. Only the Detroit Pistons, who have lost 24 consecutive games, have a worse record at 2-25.
Chicago, 12-17, are currently the 11th seed in the Eastern Conference. However, they’ve played some of their best basketball recently. The Bulls have won three of their last four games — all against quality competition. First, they beat the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers on the road before defeating the Lakers at home.
San Antonio Spurs Injury Update
There is a lot of news to report on San Antonio’s injury front. The best news is that Victor Wembanyama is listed as probable after missing the game against the Bucks with ankle soreness. Wembanyama has only missed two games this season — both of which the Spurs lost.
Keldon Johnson is also listed as probable with back soreness. Both Wembanyama and Johnson were able to participate in shootaround, which hopefully means that both will be able to play against the Bulls.
The bad news is that Devin Vassell is listed as questionable due to an unspecified illness. Recently, Tre Jones missed a game due to illness.
Chicago Bulls Injury Update
The Bulls will be without Zach LaVine and Torrey Craig against the Spurs. LaVine has a foot injury, while Craig has a heel injury. LaVine has been out since Nov. 28. Since then, the Bulls have a record of 7-3.
San Antonio Spurs Starting Lineup
Assuming Victor Wembanyama and Keldon Johnson are able to play, those two will start alongside Jeremy Sochan and Malaki Branham. If Devin Vassell can play, he too will start. If Vassell has to sit out, expect Julian Champagnie or Cedi Osman to start in his place.
Betting Guide: Spurs at Bulls
The Bulls are favored by six points and the over/under is 228.5 points. The smart money is actually on the Spurs. The Bulls played last night in a difficult game against the Lakers. The Spurs are more rested and Victor Wembanyama will be extra fresh after sitting out versus the Bucks. Take San Antonio and the six points.