Bulls Open Season Against Spurs Tonight

The Chicago Bulls kick off their 2009-2010 season tonight against Tim Duncan and the San Antonio Spurs.

The Spurs defeated the New Orleans Hornets in their season opener last night, but lost starting point guard Tony Parker midway through the third quarter. Parker, who took a hard fall on a layup and didn't return, had team highs of 17 points and six assists, and should be back on the court tonight.

The Bulls have their own beat-up point guard to worry about. Derrick Rose missed almost all of preseason with an injured tendon in his ankle, but the reigning Rookie of the Year will suit up for tonight's contest. Kirk Hinrich and the rest of the team will have to step up as Rose is likely see limited minutes as he gets his wind back.

Parker and Duncan are always tough match-ups, but the Spurs have a few new faces, like Richard Jefferson and DeJuan Blair, to worry about. Meanwhile, the Bulls will finally have a healthy Luol Deng on the floor, and will start their first season with last year's late additions, Brad Miller and John Salmons.

For more on the Spurs/Bulls match-up, check out my game preview with the guys at Project Spurs, one of the best Spurs blogs on the web. Find out how I think the Bulls will deal with the departure of Ben Gordon, what role Salmons will play this season and whether I think this will be the year Tyrus Thomas finally breaks out.