Sixers vs. Bulls: St. Patrick’s Day Edition

Well, well, well. Look who got the keys to LB today. Mike contacted me late last night - the blogging equivalent of a booty call - and asked if I could fill in for the day. He said I was his fourth first choice.

I was honored. So, this morning, I write this preview with a humble hand.

Now, I thought the boys would ease me into a game day post. Perhaps an exhibition game in Springfield, MA, or an early season tilt with the Bobcats. But, no, I was given the Bulls. In Chicago. On the back end of a back-to-back.

Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 tonight.

Hard-Hitting Analysis

Fresh off a tough 84-78 home loss to the Miami Heat last night, the Sixers try to salvage a win this weekend against the 36-10 Chicago Bulls. Derrick Rose didn't play yesterday (a loss against Portland), and is still day-to-day with a strained groin. Personally, given Rose's last outing against the Sixers, I think he should err on the side of caution. Those strained groins can linger, Derrick. They are a fickle, fickle muscle.

Obviously for the Sixers, they need to get out of the gate quicker. Not even three cans of Febreze could have masked the stench of that first half stink fest last night. Staking teams a 27-point lead at halftime just isn't good business and Doug and co. know that.

This will be the third meeting between the two teams today. The series is currently split 1-1, with the two previous games coming in Philadelphia.

Injury Notes:

Derrick Rose is questionable for tonight's game. Spencer Hawes is expected to play.

Craig Brackins did not make the trip.

And Knowing is Half the Battle

Jimmy Butler is a vegetarian who likes to hunt. Crossbow is his weapon of choice.

Taj Gibson has seen Sixpence None the Richer in concert eight times in three different continents. His favorite song is NOT "There She Goes." Too mainstream for his tastes.

Kyle Korver looks like Patton Oswalt. No one disputes this.

John Lucas had a summer job in high school at Aeropostale. He often took advantage of the employee discount.

Omer Asik won't shut up about his bracket.

Charles Barkley - NBA Superstars (via 805Bruin)

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Ecto Cooler on me.