Denver Nuggets vs Chicago Bulls Picks and Predictions November 17th 2025

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Denver Nuggets vs Chicago Bulls Betting Preview

The Denver Nuggets host the Chicago Bulls at Ball Arena in NBA Cup play. Denver enters at 10-2, riding a seven-game winning streak and unbeaten at home, while Chicago sits at 6-6 after a double-overtime loss in Utah. Bettors will weigh the Nuggets’ depth and efficiency against the Bulls’ offensive upside and road struggles.

Line Movement and Odds

  • Bulls Spread: +14.5 (-114)
  • Nuggets Spread: -14.5 (-107)
  • Bulls MoneyLine: +628
  • Nuggets MoneyLine: -948
  • Total: 242

Denver opened as a heavy home favorite, reflecting their dominance and Chicago’s five-game losing streak. See full NBA odds for market movement.

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Matchup Breakdown

Chicago Bulls Outlook

Josh Giddey posted 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 13 assists in the loss to Utah, while Nikola Vučević added 21 points and 13 boards. Chicago ranks 8th in scoring (121 ppg) and 3rd in three-point percentage (39.4%). They also rebound well, averaging 47.6 per game (4th). Despite their youth and inconsistency, strong ball movement (29.7 assists per game) gives them a chance to compete.

Denver Nuggets Outlook

Nikola Jokić continues his MVP-level play, averaging 28.7 points, 13 rebounds, and 10.9 assists. Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon provide secondary scoring, while Denver’s depth has shined with Christian Braun and Cameron Johnson sidelined. The Nuggets rank 3rd in scoring (124.4 ppg) and lead the league in FG% (50.6%). Defensively, they allow just 111.2 points per game and hold opponents to 31.5% from three, both top-three marks.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The Bulls must rely on Giddey and Vučević to generate offense and control the boards. Denver needs Jokić to orchestrate while their depth maintains efficiency. Chicago’s perimeter shooting versus Denver’s elite three-point defense will be the deciding factor.

Injuries / Availability

Denver lists Christian Braun (ankle) as out for six weeks and Cameron Johnson (biceps) as day-to-day. For full player status, check the Nuggets injury report.

Chicago lists Coby White (calf) as unlikely to play due to injury management, while Tre Jones (ankle) missed Sunday’s game. See the Bulls injury page for latest updates.

Environment

The game tips at Ball Arena, where Denver is 6-0 at home. Chicago is 1-5 on the road, struggling to find rhythm away from the United Center. Expect Denver’s depth and efficiency to thrive, while Chicago leans on perimeter shooting to stay competitive.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Nuggets 124, Bulls 112

  • Best Bet: Bulls +14.5
    Chicago’s scoring and rebounding give them value to keep this within the number.
  • Total: Under 242
    Our model projects 236 points, leaning under given Denver’s defensive efficiency.

Denver’s depth and home dominance should secure the win, but Chicago’s offensive strengths suggest they can cover. Expect a competitive game that trends under the total.

Handicappers and Service Plays

Looking for sharper betting angles on this NBA Cup clash? Explore insights from our Best Handicappers, track performance trends on the Leaderboard, and review premium selections in the Buy Picks section for added value.