Bench matchup.
One of the joys of this OKC Thunder team is the ability they have to match up on anyone. Coby White is a superstar waiting to happen for the Chicago Bulls. He has seven games scoring over 20 points and two games with 30 points or more.
When he is able to score like this the Bulls have a 4-3 record which is a 57.2 winning percentage. This is a lot better than the 39.7 winning percentage the Bulls have on the season. The rookie is so important to the Bulls chances of winning.
On the other side of the ledger is Dennis Schroder. The Thunder’s Sixth Man of the Year candidate is part of the clutch lineup which is so hard to beat. Offensively Schroder is strong, but it is his defense that puts the opposition player off.
He is willing to defend all the way up the court meaning that his opponent gets no time to think and set up the offense. If Schroder can put White off his game, the OKC Thunder is a really good chance of taking this matchup.
Odds:
Game Specifics
The Venue: United Center
Tipoff: 8:00 PM ET | 7:00 PM CT
TV: FS Oklahoma
Radio: WWLS 98.1 FM OKC
Injuries:
More from Thunderous Intentions
- Stealing one player from every Southwest Division team for the OKC Thunder
- Should the OKC Thunder chase after a disgruntled hometown hero?
- 3 OKC Thunder players who can step up in Aleksej Pokusevski’s absence
- Aleksej Pokusevski sidelined approximately 6 weeks with ankle injury
- Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder
Darius Bazley is projected to miss between four to six weeks with right knee bone bruise – which should equate to a late March return.
Terrance Ferguson left the San Antonio Spurs game with lower back pain.
Lauri Markkanen is looking for a late February, early March return from an ankle injury.
History:
The teams have played each other 22 times in regular-season history with the OKC Thunder holding a 14-8 advantage. Last season the teams played twice last season with the franchises splitting the games. This year the clubs have met once this season with the Thunder taking the win.
Enjoy the game and remember to check back after for player grades and insert your thoughts on the game.