Chicago Bulls vs Indiana Pacers Prediction | 01.28.26

Chicago Bulls vs Indiana Pacers Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 28-01-2026

The regular season brings an intriguing Central Division clash as the Chicago Bulls (23-23) travel to Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis to face the struggling Indiana Pacers (11-36) on January 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM EST. While both teams have faced challenges this season, the current form and injury situations paint a clear picture for this matchup.

Chicago Bulls vs Indiana Pacers Matchup Preview

Chicago Bulls Key Stats & Trends

The Chicago Bulls arrive in Indianapolis hovering around .500, showcasing flashes of brilliance alongside periods of inconsistency. Their offense is significantly anchored by the versatile playmaking of Josh Giddey, who leads the team with an impressive 18.8 PPG and 8.8 APG, while also contributing 8.7 RPG, making him a consistent triple-double threat. Veteran center Nikola Vucevic remains a force on the boards, averaging 9.1 RPG. Despite their balanced attack, the Bulls’ ability to close out games and maintain defensive intensity has been a question mark. They will need Giddey to orchestrate their offense effectively and Vucevic to control the paint against a depleted Pacers frontcourt.

Injury Report Chicago Bulls

• Tre Jones (Out): Jones (hamstring) is out for Wednesday’s game against the Pacers.
• Emanuel Miller (Day-to-day): Miller (hamstring) won’t play Friday against the Magic.
• Yuki Kawamura (Day-to-day): Kawamura (lower leg) signed a two-way contract with the Bulls on Tuesday, Michael Scotto of USA Today reports.
• Zach Collins (Out): Head coach Billy Donovan said he doesn’t think Collins (toe) will return before the All-Star break, which begins Feb. 13, K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network reports.
• Noa Essengue (Out): Essengue will undergo left shoulder surgery and will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season, K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network reports.

Indiana Pacers Key Stats & Trends

The Indiana Pacers are enduring a difficult season, evidenced by their 11-36 record. Their struggles have been compounded by significant injuries to key players. Star forward Pascal Siakam has been a bright spot, leading the team with 23.8 PPG and 7.0 RPG, showcasing his ability to score and rebound even amidst team turmoil. Andrew Nembhard has stepped up in the absence of other playmakers, averaging 7.4 APG. However, the Pacers’ offense lacks consistent firepower and their defense has been porous, making it challenging to compete against even average opponents.

Injury Report Indiana Pacers

• Jarace Walker (Day-to-day): Walker is questionable for Wednesday’s game against the Bulls with a right foot bruise.
• Tyrese Haliburton (Out): Haliburton said Tuesday in his appearance on the “Mind the Game” podcast that he has resumed taking part in 3-on-3 and 4-on-4 work on the court while he continues to recover from right Achilles surgery.
• Obi Toppin (Out): Toppin will undergo surgery to place a screw in his right foot Monday, Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star reports.

Chicago Bulls vs Indiana Pacers Prediction & Best Bet

This matchup presents a clear disparity, largely influenced by the Pacers’ extensive injury list. The absence of Tyrese Haliburton is a monumental blow to Indiana’s playmaking and offensive efficiency, making their attack predictable and less potent. While Pascal Siakam will undoubtedly put up numbers, he lacks the support to consistently lead the Pacers to victory against a more cohesive unit. The Bulls, despite their own injuries, still possess a strong core with Josh Giddey‘s all-around brilliance and Nikola Vucevic‘s interior presence. Given the Pacers’ dismal record and their key absences, the Bulls should have enough firepower to control this game. We predict a comfortable win for the visiting team.

Prediction: Chicago Bulls -1.5 (Spread)

Considering the Pacers’ defensive struggles and the Bulls’ offensive talent, even with injuries, a high-scoring affair is probable. The Bulls have multiple scoring options, and the Pacers, while depleted, will still look to push the pace with Siakam. The total points line of 236.5 seems achievable. Expect both teams to contribute to a game that goes over the projected total.

Over/Under Pick: Over 236.5