The Chicago Bulls take on the Indiana Pacers in a Central Division matchup on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM ET (6:00 PM CT, 4:00 PM PT), marking the third meeting between the two teams this season.
The Bulls enter the contest with a 23-23 record, sitting ninth in the Eastern Conference, while the Pacers stand at 11-36, placing them 14th in the conference. Chicago has shown more consistency lately, posting a 6-4 record over their last 10 games and averaging 118.2 points per contest during that stretch. Indiana has split their last 10 outings at 5-5, averaging 108.2 points while allowing 114.0 points per game.
This intradivisional clash features contrasting team profiles. The Bulls rank seventh in the league in scoring at 117.9 points per game but concede 119.9 points, resulting in a slight negative point differential. Defensively, Chicago allows opponents to shoot 47.4% from the field and grabs 44.7 rebounds per game. Offensively, they connect on 49.3% of their shots in recent outings.
The Pacers struggle more significantly on both ends, ranking 29th in scoring (110.2 PPG) and 24th in points allowed (118.5 PPG), leading to an 8.3-point deficit per game. They pull down 43 rebounds nightly (22nd in the league) and force 14.1 turnovers but rank near the bottom in field-goal percentage defense.
Where to Watch and Stream the Game
In the United States, local broadcasts are available through regional sports networks. Bulls fans can catch the game on Chicago Sports Network (CHSN), while Pacers supporters can tune into FanDuel Sports Network Indiana. National coverage is not scheduled for this matchup on major networks like ESPN, ABC, NBC, or NBA TV, making local RSN feeds the primary option for most viewers.
For streaming, Fubo carries both regional networks in their respective markets and offers a comprehensive package for NBA games, including live sports and on-demand content. NBA League Pass provides out-of-market viewing for fans outside the local blackout zones, with live and on-demand access to the game. Replays are typically available shortly after the final buzzer.
International audiences should consult local NBA broadcasters or subscribe to NBA League Pass, where regional rights determine availability. Audio options include team radio broadcasts, often streamed through the NBA app or official team sites.
Game Preview and Key Storylines
Betting lines list the Bulls as slim favorites, with a spread of around 1.5 to 2 points (Chicago -2 in some models) and a moneyline favoring the visitors. The over/under is set near 236.5 to 237.5 points, reflecting expectations for a moderate-scoring affair given both teams’ defensive vulnerabilities and Indiana’s lower offensive output. Analysts project a close contest, with models suggesting a final score around Bulls 118, Pacers 115.
Key performers to watch include Nikola Vucevic for Chicago, averaging 16.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. Josh Giddey contributes significantly with 18.8 points, 8.8 assists, and 8.7 rebounds. Matas Buzelis leads the Bulls in three-pointers made among active players at 1.9 per game.
For Indiana, Pascal Siakam remains the focal point, leading the team with 23.8 points and 7.0 rebounds per game, along with 4.0 assists. Siakam also provides defensive contributions with 1.1 steals and ranks among the team’s top three-point threats at 1.9 makes per contest. Andrew Nembhard and other supporting players will need to step up against Chicago’s interior presence.
Injury reports impact both sides heading into the game. The Bulls list three players as out or questionable, including Noa Essengue (out for season, shoulder), Zach Collins (out, toe), and Tre Jones (out, hamstring). The Pacers are without Obi Toppin (out, foot) and face a long-term absence from Tyrese Haliburton (out for season, Achilles). Additional players may carry game-time decision status.
The Pacers have held the edge in the season series so far with a 2-0 record against the Bulls, including strong performances against the spread. However, Chicago’s recent form and road motivation could flip the script in this divisional battle. Both teams emphasize rebounding and turnover creation, which may prove decisive in a game expected to stay competitive throughout.
Fans should verify local listings for any broadcast adjustments and consider streaming services for flexible viewing. This matchup offers an opportunity for the Bulls to solidify their playoff positioning and for the Pacers to build momentum amid a challenging season.
