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Indiana Pacers vs Chicago Bulls Betting Preview
The Indiana Pacers host the Chicago Bulls at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Saturday NBA Cup action. Chicago’s defense has collapsed without Isaac Okoro, while Indiana is injury-plagued but riding momentum from a blowout win. Bettors must weigh the Bulls’ offensive firepower against the Pacers’ depleted roster and home resilience.
Line Movement and Odds
- Bulls Spread: -4.5 (-109)
- Pacers Spread: +4.5 (-110)
- Bulls MoneyLine: -185
- Pacers MoneyLine: +156
- Total: 243.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Chicago opened as road favorites despite defensive struggles. See full NBA odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Chicago Bulls Outlook
The Bulls allowed 123 points in a loss to Charlotte, their 11th straight game giving up 120+. Coby White and Josh Giddey each scored 25, with Giddey nearly posting another triple-double. Chicago ranks fifth in scoring (121.0 PPG) and seventh in threes made, but defensive lapses remain glaring. Without Okoro, Billy Donovan’s team lacks a stopper and must rely on collective effort to slow opponents.
Indiana Pacers Outlook
Indiana snapped a skid with a 119-86 rout of Washington, led by Pascal Siakam’s 24 points and 11 rebounds. Bennedict Mathurin added 20, while T.J. McConnell continues to spark the offense, scoring in double figures in five straight games on 66% shooting. The Pacers remain shorthanded: Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles), Andrew Nembhard (quad), Quenton Jackson (hamstring), Aaron Nesmith (MCL), and Obi Toppin (foot) are all sidelined. Indiana ranks fifth in free throw attempts and defends the arc well, holding opponents to 31.6% from three.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Chicago must leverage White and Giddey’s scoring while controlling the boards. Indiana needs Siakam’s consistency and McConnell’s efficiency to exploit Chicago’s porous defense. Pace and perimeter defense will dictate outcomes in this back-to-back spot.
Injuries / Availability
Chicago lists Isaac Okoro (back) as out. For full player status, check the Bulls injury report.
Indiana remains without Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles), Andrew Nembhard (quad), Quenton Jackson (hamstring), Aaron Nesmith (MCL), and Obi Toppin (foot). See the Pacers injury report for latest updates.
Environment
Both teams are on the second night of a back-to-back, testing depth and stamina. Gainbridge Fieldhouse provides Indiana a home edge, but Chicago’s pace and offensive efficiency could overwhelm a short-handed Pacers roster.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Bulls 126, Pacers 115
- Best Bet: Bulls -4.5 (-109)
Chicago’s offense should outpace Indiana’s depleted lineup, covering the spread despite defensive issues. - Total: Under 243.5 (-110)
Our model projects 241 points, leaning under given Indiana’s limited scoring depth.
Chicago’s scoring depth and rebounding edge should secure the win, while Indiana’s injuries limit their upside. Expect a Bulls cover with the total trending slightly under.
Handicappers and Service Plays
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