The battle for the Playoffs is spicing up in the East; just two games separate the fourth-placed Toronto Raptors (17-17) and the 10th-placed Charlotte Hornets (15-17). This determines the magnitude of this NBA clash where the Raptors will host the eighth-placed Chicago Bulls.

Date & Time: February 28, 2021, 7pm ET

Venue: Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida

Preview | Toronto Raptors

Arguably, the most underrated and the most underappreciated team in the NBA currently. The Raptors began the season playing at their temporary home in Florida with a 2-8 record; rooting them on the bottom of the table at one point. But they have come back roaring in scintillating fashion.

Most of it has been thanks to the recent play of Pascal Siakam and the coaching of Nick Nurse. Unfortunately, the two along with five assistant coaches will be unavailable for this game because of the league’s strict health and safety protocols.

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In Nurse’s absence, Sergio Scariolo will lead the team from the sidelines while Kyle Lowry will marshall the troops on the floor. He recorded his 18th career triple-double in the win over Houston Rockets. Chris Boucher comes into the starting lineup to replace Siakam.

Starting 5 for the Toronto Raptors

Guard – Kyle Lowry

Guard – Fred VanVleet

Center – Chris Boucher

Forward – OG Anunoby

Forward – Norman Powell

Preview | Chicago Bulls

The Bulls have won three out of their last four games. And the primary reason for that has been Zach LaVine‘s form. The maiden All-Star nominee is carrying the team’s Playoff hopes on his back almost single handedly.

His recent scoring run is almost unparalleled. However, it is on the defensive end where the team’s struggles are more glaring. They will need to be on their toes against the backcourt duo of Lowry and VanVleet.

Starting 5 for the Chicago Bulls

Guard – Coby White

Guard – Zach LaVine

Center – Wendell Carter Jr.

Forward – Garrett Temple

Forward – Patrick Williams

Predictions | Raptors vs Bulls

The Raptors will arrive into this encounter as the favorites over their Chicago counterparts. They have overcome all the adversities that have been thrown at them. However, it would be wrong to totally discount the Bulls, considering their recent form, but it looks unlikely that they spring a surprise this time.

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