Pacers vs. Bulls preview: Chicago tries to keep pace in the Central Division

Jonathan Daniel

Chicago looks for its first win over the Pacers this season and tries to keep pace in the NBA's Central division race.

The Indiana Pacers look to clinch the season series against the Chicago Bulls on Sunday night when the two teams meet at the United Center. The Pacers won the first two meetings this season, including an 80-76 win in Chicago back in December.

The Pacers are have climbed to second place in the Eastern Conference and lead the Bulls by three full games in the standings. Indiana has won 7 of its last 10, but is just 13-16 on the road.

For more on this game check out: Blog A Bull | Indy Cornrows

Chicago has won two straight after Saturday's 96-85 win over the Brooklyn Nets. However, they are just 5-5 over their last 10 and are still awaiting the return of Derrick Rose from a torn ACL. The Bulls have struggled offensively without Rose, and were averaging just under 86 points over the seven games prior to Saturday's win.

The game will also be a matchup of two of the NBA's top three defensive teams. The Pacers are allowing a league-low 89.6 points per game this season. The Bulls are currently third, surrendering 91.2 per game.

While the Bulls have struggled offensively, Joakim Noah has done his best to pick up the slack. Noah recorded a triple-double last Thursday against Philadelphia with 23 points, 21 rebounds and 11 blocked shots. He followed that up 21 points, 10 boards and five assists in Saturday's win over the Nets. His matchup with Roy Hibbert could be key Sunday night.

Game Time: 8 p.m. ET

TV: ESPN

Odds: Indiana is favored by 7.5 points over Chicago.