Phoenix Suns vs. Chicago Bulls: TV Schedule, Live Stream, Spread Info and More
The Chicago Bulls host the Phoenix Suns as they hope to bounce back from a lopsided loss on Monday in Memphis. The Suns lost by 11 to the Spurs, and they are 1-4 on the road so far this season. The Bulls are undefeated at home and will be looking to improve upon a rare poor defensive effort in their last outing.
Where: United Center, Chicago, Ill.
When: Tuesday, Jan 17, 8:00 EDT
Watch: NBA League Pass, Comcast Sports Chicago, Fox Sports Arizona
Live Stream: NBA.com through League Pass
Listen: ESPN 1000: WMVP-AM, Chicago, KTAR-FM 92.3 Glendale, Ariz.
Betting Line: Bulls minus-9 according to oddshark.com
Chicago Bulls Key Injuries
Richard Hamilton (sore groin): Day to Day
Derrick Rose (turf toe): Game time decision.
Phoenix Suns Key Injuries
Grant Hill (groin, knee): Day to Day
What's At Stake?
A losing streak. It would be their first of the season. The Bulls desperately want to improve upon their performance in Memphis, and they may be playing without the reigning MVP, who is still being bothered by turf toe. If Rose can't go again, it will be helpful that the Bulls are at home, as role players tend to step up better in their own building.
The Bulls will be depending on John Lucas III and newly returned C.J. Watson to step up.
The Suns are trying to find some success on the road. Taking advantage of the Bulls without Rose is a decent opportunity for them to pick up a much-needed win away from the America West Arena.
What They're Saying
ESPN's Chicago Bulls beat writer Nick Friedell says sitting Rose is the right thing to do.
"The Bulls want to win every game they can, but in the grand scheme of the 66-game condensed season, regular-season games don't mean as much. The Bulls know they can beat pretty much every team in the league.
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I'd have to agree. If sitting Rose will mean it will allow for him to fully heal from his injury, then that is the best course of action.
The Suns season has been a nightmare thus far. They are on a three-game losing streak, and the folks in Phoenix aren't used to this type of futility. They are not too optimistic about this one, either.
Benjamin Leatherman of the Phoenix New Times said this of the upcoming matchup with the Bulls:
"Things aren't going to be any easier for the Suns when they hit the Windy City tonight to battle the league-leading Chicago Bulls. Although anything can happen, its likely to be a slaughter.
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The Suns are extremely soft in the middle, and for the first time in a while, they are equally as bad at the wing positions. It's going to be a long year in Phoenix.
Bulls Player To Watch: C.J Watson
Whether Rose plays or not, Watson's progress is worth watching. He is coming off a dislocated elbow, and contributions from him will be big if the Bulls are without Rose. Watson will also be counted on to give the Bulls quality minutes as Rose's backup.
Suns Player To Watch: Steve Nash
The aging, future Hall of Famer is still capable of strong performances, even if it isn't on a nightly basis as it once was. He had 20 points and 10 assists in a losing effort against the Spurs, and he will look to lead the Suns to victory tonight.
Key Matchup: Channing Frye vs Carlos Boozer
This is a battle between a finesse player and a power player. Boozer may find some success near the basket, as Frye does not have the bulk or physical nature to hold Boozer near the basket.
He won't likely have Boozer on him defensively, but the Suns have few options to throw at Boozer on the other end. This should be a big night for Boozer.
Prediction: Bulls 106, Suns 86
Even without Rose, this should be a easy win for the Bulls, as they have too much size and interior defense for Phoenix. The Suns will need to be lights out from a distance to have a chance in this one.
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