THE SKINNY
The last time these teams met, the Pacers took down the Bulls. Derrick Rose took personal note of their post-game celebration, setting up a possible playoff preview and a Central Division showdown that will fan the flames of a rivalry that has been revived with a vengeance. It is a rivalry that looks like it's staying as two young conference leaders with physical play go head-to-head in more than just a regular season game.
THE LINEUPS
Point Guard
Defending the Bulls starts here. Darren Collison has a definite disadvantage against the backcourt of the Bulls, and needs to help aggressively and pay attention to passing lanes. He also must not make bad decisions, particularly on broken plays and late in the game.
Shooting Guard
Once a position of weakness, the Pacers can now turn to Paul George to provide a spark on defense that turn into solid contributions on offense. Defending Rip Hamilton or Derrick Rose will keep him busy, but his size allows the Pacers to even up the scales in the backcourt.
Small Forward
Granger vs. Deng has been storied, and Deng can step up his game and provide consistency for the Bulls. If the Pacers want to walk out with a win, Granger should outperform Deng on both ends of the court without forcing things against a stout Chicago defense.
Power Forward
With better and better showings as the season goes on, David West is going to have a very even matchup against Carlos Boozer. Both power forwards have automatic jumpers. Both get physical inside. This matchup is extremely important, and in a game where fouls may be the order of the day, putting offensive pressure on Boozer will help send him to the bench early.
Center
Hibbert is playing with a new fire in his belly after spending time with high-caliber all-stars, and has stepped up his efficiency. While he hasn't been playing as much (due to giant second-half leads) he has been posting excellent numbers in 20-25 minutes of play. If there is a game when 33 minutes of steady production are required, this is it. His opponent will be the active and exuberant Joakim Noah, who he can now contend with down low.
THE BENCH
Tyler Hansbrough has the ability to punish Carlos Boozer, but Taj Gibson is the kind of athletic power forward that he wasn't going to be coming into the league. He needs to stick to his game and stay aggressive, and utilize his jumper. George Hill will be instrumental in establishing tempo and offense for a second unit that can best the Bulls bench.
THE COACHES
Vogel might be the best young coach in the NBA, but Thibodeau might be the best, period. He has led the Bulls to a league-best record and wants to see the success. Meanwhile, Vogel has the Pacers higher in the standings than anyone would've projected at the beginning of the season, and looks to threaten the upper echelon.
THE INJURY REPORT
Pacers
Jeff Foster: Back - Maybe.
Bulls
CJ Watson: Ankle - Maybe.
THE HEAVY MATTERS
-Out-hustle. Both teams live off defense and rebounding. Winning these two categories will establish an advantage.
-Take care of the ball. Shooting can go hot or cold, but turnovers are mistakes that can be controlled.
THE TRADITION
