This is a monster game for the Pacers, who have overcome multiple injuries to win nine of their last 11 and pull within a half-game out of a playoff spot.




The Pacers are hot and the timing is right for them to post a solid home win here against the unrested and battered Bulls. Indiana has been home since Feb. 25. They have covered the past seven times at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, one of the tougher road venues for opposing teams.




Indiana has held its last three opponents - Knicks, 76ers and Cavaliers - to an average of 80.7 points. Defense and bench strength are huge advantages Indiana brings to this matchup along with a huge situational edge. The Pacers rank No. 4 in scoring defense while Chicago is 11th. Indiana is in the argument for having the best second-unit in the NBA.




The Bulls have a shortened bench, forced to rely on a number of untested players due to injuries to Derrick Rose, Jimmy Butler and Taj Gibson.




The Bulls had to rally from a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat Oklahoma City last night. The last time the Bulls had to play without rest was on Feb. 21. They have failed to cover the past two times when playing on the second of back-to-back games. Chicago also is 3-11 ATS the past 14 times when facing a foe with a losing record.

(Editor's note: Stephen Nover is a sizzling 23-13 on his last 36 premium NBA plays and 16-6 on his past 22 college basketball premium plays. In addition to this free selection, Stephen has his NBA Marquee Matchup of the Month heading his Friday ticket. )