Eastern Conference top two sides will face off against each other as Chicago Bulls will host 2nd seed Brooklyn Nets.

Chicago Bulls have reclaimed their top position in the East after a series of dominating performances; they now have a 17-7 record in NBA. Brooklyn Nets are just 2 games behind the Bulls with a 25-14 record. Let us go through the match preview.

The Bulls were hit hard by the Covid-19 situation with many of their players sidelined due to NBA protocol. Before the Nets matchup, the Chicago team will have one more game – against the struggling pistons to get them prepared for a mega showdown. They were beaten by Luka Doncic‘s all-around performance and misfiring star duo. This is Bulls’ current streak – L1 

The Brooklyn team was shocked at Barclays Center by a complete team effort from the Portlanders. The absence of James Harden and Trail Blazers starting player did the damage to the Nets as they lost the game by 6 points. This would sum up their current streak – L9 

The head-to-head record between Nets and Bulls: Early year’s dominance from the Bulls allowed them to have a better record against the Nets. (96-82) 

Current season home record for the Bulls: Bulls have an edge on the home court (14-4)

Away record for the Nets at Bulls this season: Both home and away fixtures won by the full strength Bulls (1-0)

Current season Head to head record between Bulls and Nets: Bulls will look for a series sweep (2-0)

Last 10 Matches record between the Nets and Bulls: Nets have come up stronger in recent matches. (6-4)

Recent fixtures give the Bulls an advantage over the visiting team. But the Nets never played to their full strength against the Bulls this season. With Kyrie available on away game and Harden recovering from an ankle injury will give Nets a chance to dent the Bulls’ series sweep hopes.   

Star Player for Brooklyn Nets: Kevin Durant

The Eastern Conference-leading vote-getter has been a constant threat to opposition defense. He is scoring with ease against any opponent. In his last 2 games against the Bulls, he averages 33 points. Now with other stars available for the game, Durant can unleash upon the Bulls defense.  

Perfect Support Cast for Brooklyn Nets: James Harden and Kyrie Irving

This would be just the second time all three Nets superstars will be playing alongside each other. They have won their 1 game together – against the Pacers and will look to get similar magic against the Bulls.

James Harden had shown some flashes of his MVP season but needs to be more consistent to get wins for the Nets. Yet he is an efficient passer and can score around 20 points in the game. Irvine’s return might be a big advantage for the Nets and they will have more upgraded ball handlers and who can score from any range.    

Star player for Chicago Bulls: Zach LaVine

Yes, LaVine is not their top scorer (2nd for bulls) or even top vote-getter in the All-star game, but he is getting into scoring form right now which might be scary for the opposition. The franchise player thrives at home games and performs at both ends of the floor better. 

Perfect Support Cast for Chicago Bulls: DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic

Nikola Vucevic is part of the Bulls’ current “Big-3”. His defensive ability and rebounding give them an edge over the opponents. DeRozan had a rough night against the Mavs but can turn the game around with his clutch shooting.

Having Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso in the mix, the Bulls certainly possess the effective starting 5 players in the league.  

Team News for Chicago Bulls vs Brooklyn Nets

Home team Bulls will have Javonte Green and Tyler Cook out due to injury. Patrick Williams will also miss the game due to a wrist injury

Brooklyn Nets will miss LeMarcus Aldridge near the rim while Claxton might take his place returning from a hamstring injury.

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