This article is part of our NBA Picks series.
Nick Whalen: 
Bulls (+9.5) at 
Pacers (DK Sportsbook, Noon CT)
I hate to say it, but I'm on the Bulls tonight. I don't think they win this game, but 9.5 feels very cover-able. Chicago's frontcourt is in shambles, yes, but Indiana could be without Myles Tuner, who did not practice yesterday, as well as Malcolm Brogdon (concussion). The number implies that at least one -- if not both -- of those guys will play, but on a night when all eyes will be on Victor Oladipo's return, I think there's a chance it disrupts the Pacers' rhythm. Chances are, Oladipo doesn't play a ton of minutes, but this is suddenly a very crowded backcourt rotation. Give me the Bulls to make this loss somewhat respectable.
Alex Barutha: 
Jazz at 
Spurs, under 221.0 (DK Sportsbook, 2:59 PM CT)
LaMarcus Aldridge is out for this one, and he's obviously a crucial source of offense for the Spurs (19.1 PPG on 51.0 FG%). His minutes will be replaced largely by Jakob Poeltl, who averages just 11.7 points per 36 minutes, but blocks 3.4 shots and grabs 12.0 rebounds. I'm anticipating a tougher time scoring for the Spurs, but I'm not sure their defense will suffer horribly. Meanwhile, the Jazz continue to work Mike Conley back into the lineup. Utah is 15-12 to the under when he takes the court, and he's still not trustworthy on offense. But the Jazz have the eighth-best defense in the league, which I anticipate can hold up well against the wounded Spurs.
