Decided I would only play the Bulls if RJ Barrett and Nerlens Noel were out for the Knicks, and they are. The Canadian Barrett had a breakout second season but his numbers are down this year. Still, that's about 15 points and 6 rebounds missing. Noel is a very good rebounder and shot-blocker.

Two games ago, Tom Thibodeau took Kemba Walker out of the rotation and started Alec Burks. The results have been impressive: a nine-point win in Atlanta and a controversial two-point loss at Brooklyn. Chicago's defense has been bad lately; Burks (and the rest of the team) should thrive. Look for New York to cover for the fifth straight time when hosting the Bulls.