The Bulls nearly caught Philadelphia on Sunday, cutting the gap to three points late in the fourth quarter. Josh Giddey kept finding open teammates, and Caleb Wilson kept attacking. Yet Chicago’s comeback stopped short. Now, on Wednesday night at 8:00 p.m. EST, the Bulls welcome an even taller challenge: Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs.

As of Monday’s games, San Antonio stands 9-2 and is rolling into Chicago after three straight wins by wide margins. The Spurs scored at least 122 points in each of those victories, showing how many ways they can pressure a defense. Chicago, 1-8 as of Monday, has lost three in a row but showed real fight in its 127-121 loss to the 76ers. This game asks a big question for the young Bulls: Can they turn that late-game energy into a full four quarters against one of the league’s strongest teams?

Wembanyama is the towering center of that challenge. The 7-foot-4 star averages 29.1 points, 12 rebounds, and four blocks. A block happens when a defender knocks away a shot, and Wembanyama changes the game with them. Chicago’s drivers must look for him near the rim, then make sharp passes to open teammates. The Bulls also must keep him from grabbing extra shots. San Antonio pulls down more rebounds than Chicago, and Wembanyama’s work around the basket often gives his team another turn with the ball.

That puts Giddey at the heart of Chicago’s answer. He averages 8.4 assists, which shows how often he creates shots for others. Against Philadelphia, he handed out 15 assists and helped Wilson find room to score. Wilson, the rookie forward, leads the Bulls with 19.3 points per game. His speed and leaping can make him dangerous in the open floor, especially if Chicago forces missed shots and runs quickly.

Still, the Bulls must take better care of the ball. They give it away 16.1 times per game, while the Spurs average only 13 giveaways. Those extra possessions can become a major edge for San Antonio’s guards. Dylan Harper brings strength and smooth scoring, while Stephon Castle uses his big frame to rebound and set up teammates. Together, they give Wembanyama support instead of asking him to do everything.

Chicago’s chance starts with its young forwards. Wilson and Matas Buzelis need to use their length to challenge shots and chase loose balls. Nic Claxton, who recently returned to the lineup, can protect the rim with his quick feet and shot blocking. Norman Powell is listed day-to-day with a shoulder injury, so his availability could matter for a Bulls team that needs more outside shooting.

Devin Vassell is listed out for San Antonio with a groin injury, but the Spurs have already shown their depth during this hot start. Chicago should bring energy from its home crowd and make every rebound a fight. Still, San Antonio has been more complete on both ends of the floor. Prediction: The Spurs will win behind Wembanyama’s size and their steady guard play.

Victor Wembanyama Brings San Antonio’s Fast Start to Chicago