Chicago Bulls will be down two players in opener against Sixers
By Ryan Heckman
The Chicago Bulls will be shorthanded in their season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers.
The start of the 2018-2019 NBA season for the Chicago Bulls begins with a tough road test against the Philadelphia 76ers. With a new starting lineup in effect, the Fred Hoiberg hopes his team can compete with one of the favorites in the Eastern Conference.
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Zach LaVine will be the main guy offensively-speaking, while newly-signed Jabari Parker will be coming off the bench to play more of a point-forward type of role, according to Hoiberg.
Parker’s presence might be counted on more than originally thought, too, without Kris Dunn. The Bulls announced Dunn was excused from Philadelphia due to a “personal matter.” Because of this, Cameron Payne will start in his place.
With Parker set to play more of a facilitating role, this could be a big opportunity for him to relish such a responsibility.
Not only will the Bulls be without Dunn, but swingman Denzel Valentine will also not suit up for the Bulls due to continuing to recover from a left ankle injury. The thought was that he’d be ready to go by now, but that is not the case.
Of course, on top of missing Dunn and Valentine, the Bulls won’t have Lauri Markkanen, who is out another several weeks recovering from an elbow injury.
If Chicago is going to get a win in Philly, it’s going to be largely in part due to the performances of LaVine and Parker. But, a third key in this one is going to be how Wendell Carter Jr. plays while matched up against All Star Joel Embiid.
Not to mention, containing a guy like Ben Simmons is not an easy task. Before it was announced Dunn was out, that responsibility was likely on his shoulders. Now, it will take a group effort.
Bulls: Lots to love about new starting lineup. dark. Next
The Bulls and Sixers square off at 7PM Central on Thursday night. You can watch live on TNT, as it is a nationally-televised game to start the season.