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NBA Game of the Day: Bulls at Clippers
By Covers.com

Chicago Bulls at Los Angeles Clippers (-6.5, 194.5)

The Los Angeles Clippers have benefited from some home cooking to rebound from a sluggish start. After splitting their first four contests, the Clippers will vie for their fifth consecutive victory on Saturday when they entertain the Chicago Bulls. Blake Griffin, who collected 20 points and 14 rebounds in a 107-100 victory over Miami on Wednesday, averages a career-best 31.7 points versus the Bulls.

Chicago has alternated wins and losses in its last six outings - with the former coming to light as it opened a five-game road trip on Wednesday with a 112-106 overtime victory over Phoenix. Carlos Boozer overcame some uneven play to record a season-high 28 points and 14 rebounds for the Bulls, who have won their lone two contests away from the United Center. Boozer had failed to score in double figures in three of his previous five contests.

ABOUT THE BULLS (5-3): Veteran guard Kirk Hinrich distributed seven assists in his return from a strained right hamstring and gluteus area. Nate Robinson flourished in his absence, recording a season-high 18 points versus Minnesota last Saturday while adding seven assists against Boston on Monday. Guard play will continue to be under the microscope as the team soldiers on without former NBA MVP Derrick Rose.

ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (6-2): Los Angeles hasn't ventured too far from home this season - posting a 4-2 mark while also claiming a "road" victory over the rival Lakers at the Staples Center. Former Sixth Man of the Year winner Jamal Crawford, who is the highest scoring bench player this season, bolstered his resume with 22 points off the bench versus the Heat. Chris Paul has averaged 21.2 points in 11 career games against the Bulls.

TRENDS:

* Bulls are 1-5 ATS in their last six games overall.
* Clippers are 4-0 ATS in their last four games overall.
* Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.
* Road team is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.

BUZZER BEATERS:

1. The Bulls have had the Clippers' number at the Staples Center, winning four of the last five meetings. Chicago claimed a 114-101 triumph on Dec. 30.

2. Los Angeles, which is shooting an NBA-best 49.5 percent from the floor, is third in the league in scoring (102.8).

3. After practicing at the Berto Center in nearby Deerfield (Ill.) since 1992, the Bulls on Friday announced details of a plan to build a new facility near the United Center. It is scheduled to be completed prior to the 2014-15 season.