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 Former league MVP Derrick Rose was back in the Bulls’ lineup
against Milwaukee and Joakim Noah could return Friday after missing
two games due to illness. Philadelphia dropped its first five games
of the season for the first time since 2001-02, losing at the buzzer
to Orlando 91-89 on Wednesday. “Every game we are getting better,”
76ers forward Brandon Davies told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “Every
game we are a couple plays from getting things done and getting
wins.”
TV: 7 p.m. ET, CSN Chicago, CSN Philadelphia
 ABOUT THE BULLS (4-1): Jimmy Butler has been a solid contributor
since returning from a thumb injury, averaging a team-high 19.7
points over three games while shooting 51.4 percent from the field.
Rose, who is hampered by two sore ankles, posted 13 points and seven
assists to help the Bulls hold off Milwaukee to improve to 3-0 on
the road. Forward Taj Gibson may be off to the best start of anyone
while scoring 20 or more points in two of his four outings while
making 60 percent of his shots.
ABOUT THE 76ERS (0-5): Philadelphia will likely be without talented
rookie center Nerlens Noel, who left Wednesday’s game in the third
quarter with a sprained ankle. Guard Tony Wroten has the primary
option on offense, averaging 20.8 points after scoring 27 on
Wednesday, and the 6-10 Davies is raising his game in his second pro
season. Davies recorded a career-best 20 points against Orlando and
rookie swingman K.J. McDaniels has impressed with his versatility
while averaging 9.6 points.
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BUZZER BEATERS
1. Gasol is averaging 21 points, 9.9 rebounds and 52.3 percent
shooting in 20 career games against the 76ers.
2. Philadelphia G Michael Carter-Williams (shoulder), the 2013-14
Rookie of the Year, practiced Thursday and could return next week.
3. The Bulls have won six of the previous seven meetings, including
the last three by an average of 14.3 points.
PREDICTION: Bulls 98, 76ers 90
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