The Dallas Mavericks will be looking for redemption when they host the Chicago Bulls on Sunday after losing for the first time in their last five matches. On the other hand, their opponents will be looking to overcome the 4-game losing streak they are on.

Date & Time: 17th January’21, 2pm CT

Venue: American Airlines Center, Dallas

Preview | Dallas Mavericks

The Texan team did not begin the season on the best note with MVP favorite Luka Doncic struggling for form and fitness. Merely 15 days ago, they lost to the Bulls in the absence of Doncic to be on an unfavorable 2-4 record. But they have turned it around since with 4 consecutive wins.

But the Milwaukee Bucks interrupted this honeymoon period, handing them a close 112-109 defeat. Kristaps Porzingis, in just his second game back, air-balled a clutch 3 to the dismay of Doncic. What further upset the already disgruntled superstar was coach Rick Carlisle’s inability to call a timeout.

So, they will look to get back to winning ways. However, Porzingis might be slightly questionable for this one because of load management. But since the Mavericks are already short-handed, he may have to take to the court.

Predicted Starting 5 for the Dallas Mavericks

Guard – Luka Doncic

Guard – Tim Hardaway Jr.

Center – Willie Cauley-Stein

Forward – Wes Iwundu

Forward – Kristaps Porzingis

Preview | Chicago Bulls

This team is all about Zach LaVine, who is playing at an All-Star level. He is averaging a career-high 28.3 points per game to go with 5.3 rebounds and 4.8 assists. He is also mixing it up with efficiency, with a 39.6% 3-point shooting and 49.8% overall shooting.

For all their proficiencies on the offensive end, the Bulls can’t play a lick of defense. And that has been their undoing all this season.

Predicted Starting 5 for the Chicago Bulls

Guard – Zach LaVine

Guard – Coby White

Center – Wendell Carter Jr.

Forward – Lauri Markkanen

Forward – Patrick Williams

Pick | Mavericks vs Bulls

This is an opportune moment for KP to find his shooting form. The Bulls give their opponents acres of space, and one can expect the Mavs to exploit this. Hence, they are the favorites for this matchup.

But the Bulls are a potent threat on the fast break. And they can spring a surprise now and then. So, don’t count out the underdogs yet.