Indiana Pacers vs. Chicago Bulls: TV Schedule, Live Stream, Spread Info and More

This is one of the matchups that may be a preview of a possible first-round playoff series, with both teams going seven games in a heated battle.

While the Chicago Bulls are the obvious favorites, the Indiana Pacers have made huge steps to get better and this is the first time their new plan will be laid out.

Where: United Center, Chicago, IL

When: Tuesday, December 20, 8:00 p.m. ET

Watch: Comcast Sports Chicago

Listen: ESPN Radio

Betting Line: Over/Under: 189, Spread: -7.5

Injuries:

Chicago

No injuries reported

Pacers

David West, PF, Questionable for start of 2011-12 season

Jeff Pendergraph, PF, Questionable

Indiana’s Player to Watch: Danny Granger

While Granger has shown over the years that he can be a solid all-around player, he has not excelled in any one aspect and Larry Bird wants more from him this season. If he opens up and listens to Bird about improving his game, Granger could be in store for a career year.

Chicago’s Player to Watch: Derrick Rose

The Bulls go as Derrick Rose does, and I think this game will be a great gauge of how ready he is to play NBA basketball. This lockout will affect all players differently, but it will be interesting to see how Rose handles it all.

What They’re Saying

ESPN Chicago Bulls’ Insider Nick Friedell is reporting on twitter:

Prediction: Pacers 102, Bulls 96

With a Pacers team full of new stars, they will come out of the gate trying to prove a point against the Eastern Conference mega power Bulls. This is just about getting into game shape for the Bulls, so they are going to move through the motions on offense and start to concentrate on their defense.

Check back for more on the National Basketball Association as it comes, and check out Bleacher Report’s NBA Page to get your fill of all things basketball.

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