Chicago Bulls vs Indiana Pacers: NBA Eastern Conference Clash Preview
The Chicago Bulls and Indiana Pacers are set to battle it out on Wednesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. This Eastern Conference matchup features two teams coming off recent losses, both eager to regain momentum as the NBA season progresses.
Team Form and Recent Performances
The Indiana Pacers currently find themselves struggling near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with an 11-36 record. They have lost four of their last six games, including a recent 116-132 defeat against the Atlanta Hawks. The Pacers will be looking to turn their fortunes around as they host this crucial home game.
The Chicago Bulls enter this contest with a more balanced 23-23 record, though they too are coming off a disappointing 118-129 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers that snapped their four-game winning streak. Both teams will be determined to establish offensive and defensive dominance on the court after their recent setbacks.
Historical Head-to-Head Record
The Bulls and Pacers have a long-standing rivalry with over 213 regular-season meetings throughout NBA history. Chicago holds a slight edge in the overall series with 107 wins compared to Indiana's 103 victories. However, in the current 2025-26 season, the Pacers have gained the upper hand by winning both previous matchups between these teams.
Game Details and Broadcast Information
The regular season game is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28, 2026, with tip-off at 7:00 PM Eastern Time. The venue is Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Fans can watch the game live through multiple platforms including:
- NBA League Pass
- Fubo
- Peacock
- Amazon Prime Video
Expected Starting Lineups
Indiana Pacers Projected Starters:
- PG: Andrew Nembhard
- SG: Aaron Nesmith
- SF: Bennedict Mathurin
- PF: Johnny Furphy
- C: Pascal Siakam
Chicago Bulls Projected Starters:
- PG: Coby White
- SG: Josh Giddey
- SF: Isaac Okoro
- PF: Matas Buzelis
- C: Nikola Vucevic
Injury Report and Player Availability
Indiana Pacers Injury Status:
- Tyrese Haliburton - OUT (Achilles surgery recovery)
- Obi Toppin - OUT (foot injury)
- Jarace Walker - QUESTIONABLE (right foot bruise)
- Taelon Peter - DOUBTFUL
- Ethan Thompson - PROBABLE
Chicago Bulls Injury Status:
- Tre Jones - OUT (hamstring strain)
- Zach Collins - OUT (toe injury)
- Noa Essengue - OUT (shoulder issue)
Game Prediction and Analysis
Despite the Pacers having won both previous meetings this season, the Chicago Bulls enter this matchup as favorites based on their superior offensive performance. The Bulls boast a 115.8 offensive rating this season, averaging 117.9 points per game. Their offensive firepower contrasts with the Pacers' 106.3 offensive rating and defensive struggles that have allowed opponents to score over 118 points per contest.
The Pacers' injury concerns, particularly the absence of key players like Tyrese Haliburton, create significant challenges for their lineup. The Bulls' depth and the interior presence of center Nikola Vucevic are expected to be decisive factors in what promises to be a closely contested, high-scoring affair.
Final Score Prediction: Chicago Bulls 120 - 117 Indiana Pacers
This game represents an important opportunity for both teams to build momentum as they navigate the remainder of the NBA regular season. The Bulls will look to leverage their offensive strengths against a Pacers team missing crucial contributors, while Indiana will aim to overcome their injury setbacks and secure a much-needed home victory.
