Chicago Bulls vs. Orlando Magic: TV Schedule, Live Stream, Spread Info and More

A pivotal Eastern Conference battle takes place Friday night, as the Orlando Magic host the Chicago Bulls. 

The Bulls and the Magic are off to a great start, and this game will be a true test for both. Since they're some of the best teams in the East, this early-season matchup will show where each team is at and what needs to be worked on. 

Chicago has won five straight games, and they have a good shot at making it six in a row because of their tough defense. 

With star players on the court, it's sure to be a fun game to watch. Let's take a look at some specifics for this Friday night showdown. 

When: Friday, Jan. 6, at 8:00 p.m. ET 

Where: Amway Center, Orlando, FL

Watch: ESPN

Live Stream: NBA League Pass

Listen: WMVP 1000 AM in Chicago, WDBO 580 AM in Orlando 

Betting Line:  Orlando (-1) 

Chicago Injury Report 

*According to CBS Sports

SG Richard Hamilton (groin): Questionable 

PG Derrick Rose (elbow): Probable 

PG CJ Watson (elbow): Doubtful 

Orlando Injury Report 

*According to CBS Sports

No injuries reported 

What's at Stake? 

The Magic haven't beaten a truly elite team this season, so a win over Chicago would do wonders for them moving forward. 

As for Chicago, there isn't much at stake. Rose should play, but since he's banged up, it means others need to step up and show that they can score when needed. 

What They're Saying 

Neil Hayes covers the Bulls for the Chicago Sun-Times, and he tweeted the latest on Hamilton's status. 

Listed as questionable leaves it open, but this makes it obvious. Hamilton is averaging 12 points per game this year for the Bulls, and staying healthy is key for him, as Chicago desperately needs him down the stretch. 

There's no need for Hamilton to further injure himself, so sitting this game out is a wise decision. 

Josh Robbins covers the Magic for the Orlando Sentinel, and he tweeted what head coach Stan Van Gundy had to say about Glen Davis. 

Davis is very vital to the Magic's success this season. If Orlando wants to keep Dwight Howard, it has to have a strong season with playoff wins, and its up to Davis to elevate his game to new heights. 

Robbins also tweeted that HBO Sports is going to do a profile on the Van Gundy brothers, and even if you're not a huge fan of them, this should be some entertaining television.

Perhaps we can get them to play a game of one-on-one. Now that would be hilarious.

Bulls Player to Watch 

Since Derrick Rose is shaken up a bit, he is definitely the guy to watch. He's the star of the team, and his health is their biggest concern.

If Rose is bothered at all or feeling any pain, the Bulls need to sit him. Injuries happen throughout the season, but Chicago has to make sure it keeps Rose from being out for an extended period of time.

Plus, watching how Rose plays after hurting his elbow will be a good sign of how he handles pain.

Magic Player to Watch 

This one is too easy because Dwight Howard is also the Orlando player to watch.  

As the best center in the NBA, Howard dominates the floor. He's up against a very good defensive team, so it will be interesting to see how he plays Friday night. 

Currently, Howard is averaging 19 points per game and 16 rebounds, and he'll have to reach that plus some in order to take down the Bulls. 

Key Matchup 

Chicago vs. Howard is essentially the matchup to watch for tonight. Will they be able to contain the big man? 

Since the Bulls will be without Hamilton, other players must help score points. This gives the Magic a good chance to stay competitive throughout, and since Howard consistently puts up good numbers against Chicago, the Bulls have to make sure the limit his production or else they'll be in trouble. 

Prediction 

Bulls 94, Magic 88