Chicago Bulls vs Orlando Magic

The Chicago Bulls get another crack at the Orlando Magic on Friday night as the two squads face off in the Group Stage of the NBA In-Season Tournament. The Bulls and the Magic are bringing up the rear in East Group C, with each team having a 0-1 record.

Overall, the Bulls hold a 4-8 card with a 3-4 record at the United Center. One of those losses came last Wednesday night when the Magic prevailed by the skin of their teeth, 96-94. Having lost two in a row and three of their last five, the Bulls are looking for stability in what has been so far a tempestuous start to the season.

Heartbreaking loss

In that game, the Bulls had a horrendous first half, scoring just 33 points, to fall behind 50-33 at halftime. Chicago, though, fought back to tie the game at 94-all after back-to-back three-pointers by Zach LaVine. However, Paolo Banchero scored on a midrange jumper with 1.4 seconds remaining to give Orlando the win, albeit in controversial fashion.

A day later, the NBA confirmed in its Last Two Minute Report that Banchero committed a traveling violation that was not called by the referees.

PAOLO FOR THE WIN 💰♨️ pic.twitter.com/vsB7aAvHfw
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 16, 2023

DeRozan remains uncertain to play

It remains to be seen if DeMar DeRozan will play on Friday. He missed Wednesday’s game due to personal reasons and Bulls coach Billy Donovan has said the team will give the veteran all the time he needs to tend to the matter.

On the injury front, young guard Dalen Terry is out with a knee issue while Alex Caruso is probable to play despite a toe injury.

DeMar DeRozan is still away from team tending to personal matter, per Donovan. Team obviously will give DeRozan time he needs. Donovan said his availability for game tomorrow is TBD.
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) November 16, 2023