Injury Report Highlights Pacers’ Challenge Against Bulls
The Indiana Pacers are facing a significant hurdle as they gear up for a challenging matchup against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. With injuries affecting their roster, the Pacers will be without several key players, making this contest even more daunting.
Critical Absences for the Pacers
The injury list for Indiana is extensive:
Ben Sheppard: Out – Calf
Tyrese Haliburton: Out – Achilles
Quenton Jackson: Out – Hamstring
Aaron Nesmith: Out – Knee
Obi Toppin: Out – Foot
Kam Jones: Out – Back
These absences leave the Pacers with a depleted lineup, forcing them to rely on younger players and those with less experience.
Bulls’ Roster Adjustments
The Chicago Bulls are also dealing with their share of injuries, although they do have some players available:
Ayo Dosunmu: Out – Thumb
Tre Jones: Out – Ankle
Patrick Williams: Available – Wrist
Dalen Terry: Available – Calf
Kevin Huerter: Out – Hamstring
Isaac Okoro: Out – Back
Jalen Smith: Out – Hamstring
Noa Essengue: Out – Shoulder
Patrick Williams and Dalen Terry’s availability will provide some relief to the Bulls as they seek to capitalize on the Pacers’ struggles.
Game Details
The matchup is set for Friday, December 5, at 7:00 p.m. CST, in Chicago. Fans can catch the game on the FanDuel Sports Network Indiana and Chicago Sports Network, with radio coverage available on 93.5/107.5 The Fan in Indiana and 670 The Score in Chicago.
Season Context and Historical Matchup
This game marks the second of four regular-season encounters between the Pacers and Bulls. Indiana previously emerged victorious in their first meeting in November. Historically, the Pacers have a record of 108-115 against the Bulls, with a notable disparity in performance: they are 74-38 in home games but just 34-70 in road games.
Projected Starters
As both teams prepare to face off, here are the projected starters:
Pacers
G Andrew Nembhard
G Bennedict Mathurin
C Jay Huff
F Jarace Walker
F Pascal Siakam
Bulls
G Josh Giddey
G Coby White
C Nikola Vucevic
F Julian Philips
F Matas Buzelis
Betting Lines Overview
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the betting spread favors the Bulls by 5.5 points, with the Pacers sitting at +5 (-106). The moneyline shows the Pacers at +168 and the Bulls at -200, with a total points over/under set at 234.5.
Looking Ahead
As the Pacers navigate this injury crisis, their ability to adapt will be critical. They are reportedly exploring trade options involving former lottery picks as they seek to enhance their roster. With the season still unfolding, all eyes will be on how this matchup plays out and what it means for both teams moving forward.
