The Bulls will have Zach LaVine and Otto Porter, but I like the Clippers coming off that brutal home loss to Portland on Tuesday. That performance was on the second night of a back-to-back, whereas now the Clips are well rested. Plus, Lauri Markkanen is really struggling, shooting 34.4 percent from the floor over the past six games. LA has won five straight in the series. Lay it.

The Bulls have been beaten soundly their last two games, but Zach LaVine (knee) missed both of those contests. He’s listed as probable against the Clippers and his return would provide a massive boost. With Otto Porter Jr. in the fold, the Bulls have been a much more competitive team. I think the Clippers win this game even if LaVine does make his expected return, but this is a big line, so I’ll take the Bulls and the points.

My data sees the Bulls staying within four or fewer points of the Clippers in the majority of simulations for their Friday meeting. My numbers have Chicago covering more than 60 percent of the time, which gives us strong value with taking the points. The Bulls have covered seven of their past 10 road contests.