Game Thread: Toronto Raptors vs. Chicago Bulls

A 1-2 start for the Raptors feels about normal for a team still finding its way in the early part of the season. At any rate, if you could pick a win to feel good about out of the first three games, it’s against the stupid Boston Celtics — without a shadow of a doubt. (Or maybe that’s just me.)

What’s disappointing, though, is that the Raptors haven’t been able to find any juice at home — especially given the importance of returning to that home this season. After laying an egg in the season opener, the Raptors ran back a fake comeback against the Mavericks and still await their first victory at Scotiabank Arena.

Now, they get another opportunity against the Chicago Bulls. 3-0 so far this season, the Bulls have been a bit surprising — especially as they’ve only given up 94.0 points per game and posted a point differential of +12.3. We knew that any team with Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Lonzo Ball would be explosive offensively; it was the other end that remained a question mark. So far, so good in that regard.

One item to watch for the Bulls is the status of Nikola Vucevic. A game-time decision up until about 6:50 p.m., Vucevic is dealing with an unknown illness — but will play and start for Billy Donovan’s squad.

For the Raptors, Nick Nurse is going with the same starters and a status quo look for tonight. Toronto will continue their four-game home stand Wednesday against Indiana.

Here are the game details.

Where to Watch:

TSN, 7:30 PM EST

Lineups:

Toronto – Fred VanVleet, Gary Trent Jr., OG Anunoby, Scottie Barnes, Precious Achiuwa

Chicago – Lonzo Ball, DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, Patrick Williams, Nikola Vucevic

Injuries:

Toronto – Pascal Siakam (shoulder — out), Yuta Watanabe (calf — out)

Chicago – Coby White (shoulder — out)