Chicago Bulls vs. Minnesota Timberwolves - GAME DAY PREVIEW

The Bulls have a tall task in front of them.

© Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bulls (23-27) have the unenviable task of taking on the second-best team in the Western Conference, the Minnesota Timberwolves (35-15), in this east versus west showdown that tips off at 8 p.m. EST.

A team with an uncertain future

The Bulls’ future is in the air, with the trade deadline only a few days away and ace player Zach LaVine out for the season after undergoing surgery to fix his ailing right foot. 

Despite this uncertainty, the Bulls have managed to stay competitive in a tough Eastern Conference, currently sitting in ninth place, 4.5 games behind the sixth-seed Indiana Pacers, who hold the last ticket to the NBA Playoffs if they were to start today.

The Bulls will have their work cut out for them trying to stop a young but hungry Wolves squad led by All-Stars Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns. Edwards is averaging 25.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists, while Anthony Towns is averaging 25.1 points over his last 10 outings.

Anthony Edwards with the INSANE handle and drives for the bucket 😮‍💨pic.twitter.com/NHxIGXXQps

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 3, 2024

Walking wounded

The Bulls will head to this match with defensive ace Alex Caruso listed as questionable due to a left adductor strain. Meanwhile, Coby White, Dalen Terry, and Torrey Craig are all listed as probable to play against the Timberwolves despite their respective injuries.

Bulls list Coby White, Torrey Craig and Dalen Terry probable vs. Timberwolves. Alex Caruso is listed as questionable. For context, Caurso has played most every game this season where he has been listed as questionable.

— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) February 5, 2024

Billy Donovan says Lonzo Ball has yet to sprint and run, but they aren't worried