UPDATE: Vucevic has been ruled out for Wednesday’s game vs. the Clippers.
Nikola Vucevic missed Monday’s 34-point win over the 76ers with a calf injury and the center has been listed as doubtful for Wednesday’s matchup vs. the Clippers. The Bulls have also listed Ayo Dosunmu (shoulder) as questionable and Kevin Huerter (quad) as probable.
Calf injuries are always concerning for big men and the Bulls likely won’t rush Vucevic back, as they are a team that likely wants to keep falling in the standings as the season winds down to improve their chances in the draft lottery.
With Vucevic expected to be out Wednesday, Zach Collins should draw his second straight start at center for Chicago. The ex-Spur was traded to the Bulls earlier this month and in Collins’ first start as a Bull on Monday, he finished with 19 points, five rebounds, one assist, one block and one steal across 27 minutes (30.75 FPTS). Collins led Chicago in plus/minus in the win and will be an excellent value play for DFS on Wednesday, regardless of this poor matchup with the Clippers, who rank fourth in defensive efficiency this season. Josh Giddey will also be a strong target, as the guard had his best showing of the season with Vucevic inactive Monday, tallying 25 points, 16 rebounds and six assists (62 FPTS). With Vucevic and Zach LaVine (now with the Kings) off the floor this season, Giddey is leading the Bulls with 1.4 FPTS per minute.
Chicago is 2-0 with Vucevic inactive this season, but it will likely be an underdog vs. the Clippers when the lines for this game are released on DraftKings Sportsbook.
