Bulls Aim to End 3-Game Skid Against Mavericks

Chicago and Dallas clash in key interconference matchup

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:03am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in progress, with the players' forms broken down into overlapping planes of color and shape, conveying the intensity and unpredictability of the matchup.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes clash between the Chicago Bulls and Dallas Mavericks, capturing the dynamic energy and strategic complexity of the game.Chicago Today

The Chicago Bulls, sitting at 17-20 in the Eastern Conference, will host the Dallas Mavericks, who hold a 14-24 record in the West. Both teams are looking to bounce back from recent losses, with the Bulls hoping to snap a 3-game losing streak and the Mavericks aiming to improve their respectable 4-14 road record.

Why it matters

This game features two iconic NBA franchises battling for a crucial win. The Bulls have a strong home record but the Mavericks have been effective on the fast break. Three-point shooting could be a key factor, with the Bulls averaging more made threes per game than the Mavericks typically allow.

The details

The Bulls will be without several key players due to injuries, including Noa Essengue, Jalen Smith, Josh Giddey, Zach Collins, and Kevin Huerter. The Mavericks are also dealing with their own injury issues, missing Dereck Lively II, Kyrie Irving, Dante Exum, Anthony Davis, P.J. Washington, and Brandon Williams.

  • The game will take place on April 13, 2026.

The players

Nikola Vucevic

A star center for the Chicago Bulls, averaging 16.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game.

Matas Buzelis

A promising young player for the Chicago Bulls.

Naji Marshall

A key contributor for the Dallas Mavericks.

Cooper Flagg

The Mavericks' leading scorer, averaging 20.6 points per game over the last 10 games.

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What they’re saying

“We must come out strong and play our game if we want to end this losing streak. The Mavericks are a tough team, but we have the talent to beat them on our home court.”

— Nikola Vucevic, Chicago Bulls Center

“Our fast-paced offense has been a key to our success on the road. We'll need to keep that momentum going against a tough Bulls team.”

— Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks Guard

What’s next

The winner of this game will gain valuable ground in their respective conference standings, setting the stage for a potential playoff push in the final weeks of the season.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Bulls and Mavericks showcases the competitive nature of the NBA, with both teams looking to bounce back from recent losses and solidify their position in the playoff race. The outcome could come down to which team is able to capitalize on their strengths, whether it's the Bulls' three-point shooting or the Mavericks' fast-paced offense.