Sixers play first of back-to-backs tonight in Chicago

The Sixers caught a slight break on Saturday night when they played an Orlando Magic team that was in the process of a trade, thus leaving the Magic with only eight players. The Sixers took advantage, improving to 3-10 on the road this season with a 97-89 win.

Tonight they'll also face a team that is a bit depleted as big man Joakim Noah is out after having surgery to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb. Noah is averaging 14 points and close to 12 rebounds a game. Also, forward Taj Gibson is a game-time decision as he suffered a concussion on Saturday.

The Sixers have been getting good contributions from almost everyone of late as they have won eight of 11, including consecutive road games. With the Bulls so bare in the low post, expect the Sixers to make an effort to get Spencer Hawes and Elton Brand off early.

Brand collected 20 points and 13 rebounds in Saturday's win over the Magic, while Hawes has gotten three double-doubles in his past seven games.

Look for guard Evan Turner, a Chicago native, to get some serious minutes tonight. Coach Doug Collins has a soft spot for playing guys in situations like this.

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