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Chicago Bulls vs Charlotte Hornets Betting Preview
The Chicago Bulls visit the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center in Friday NBA Cup action. Both teams are struggling defensively, with Chicago coming off a high-scoring loss and Charlotte mired in a seven-game skid. Bettors will weigh the Bulls’ offensive firepower against the Hornets’ potential to turn things around at home.
Line Movement and Odds
- Bulls Spread: -2.5 (-109)
- Hornets Spread: +2.5 (-111)
- Bulls MoneyLine: -137
- Hornets MoneyLine: +116
- Total: 247.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Chicago opened as slight road favorites, reflecting their stronger record despite defensive woes. See full NBA odds for market movement.
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Matchup Breakdown
Chicago Bulls Outlook
The Bulls lost 143-130 to New Orleans, exposing defensive issues. Ayo Dosunmu scored 28 points, while Coby White added 24 and has averaged 24 over his last four games. Chicago ranks fourth in scoring (121.3 PPG) and second in possessions per game, maintaining a fast pace. They also shoot 37.9% from three (fourth). Nikola Vucevic’s return should bolster rebounding and interior defense, giving Chicago a chance to stabilize.
Charlotte Hornets Outlook
Charlotte fell 129-101 to New York, their seventh straight loss. Brandon Miller scored 18 points, while LaMelo Ball added 11 in 27 minutes as he continues his injury return. The Hornets rank eighth in threes made per game and fourth in free throw percentage (82.5%). They allow just 39.4 rebounds per game (third) and lead the league in steals (6.6), showing defensive potential despite poor results. Effort and consistency remain their biggest challenges.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
The Bulls must rely on Dosunmu and White’s scoring while tightening defensive rotations. The Hornets need Ball’s playmaking and Miller’s shooting to spark offense. Rebounding and perimeter defense will be decisive in this Cup contest.
Injuries / Availability
Chicago reports Nikola Vucevic returning to the lineup. For full player status, check the Bulls injury report.
Charlotte lists LaMelo Ball (ankle recovery) as available but still ramping up minutes. See the Hornets injury page for latest updates.
Environment
The game tips at Spectrum Center, where Charlotte looks to end their losing streak. Chicago aims to rebound from defensive lapses. Expect a high-paced, offense-heavy atmosphere with both teams desperate for a win.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Bulls 124, Hornets 120
- Best Bet: Bulls -2.5 (-109)
Chicago’s offensive pace and scoring depth suggest they can cover the spread. - Total: Over 247.5 (-110)
Our model projects 244 points, but given both defenses’ struggles, the over is a reasonable choice.
Chicago’s offense should secure the win, while Charlotte’s effort keeps it close. Expect a competitive, high-scoring contest trending over the total.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Boost your NBA betting confidence by exploring expert breakdowns in our Best Handicappers, tracking NBA Cup trends on the Leaderboard, and reviewing premium basketball picks in the Buy Picks section for sharper insights.
