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New Orleans Pelicans vs Chicago Bulls Betting Preview
The New Orleans Pelicans host the Chicago Bulls at Smoothie King Center in Monday NBA action. Chicago enters at 9-7 after three wins in their last four, while New Orleans sits at 2-15 on a nine-game losing streak. Bettors will weigh the Bulls’ offensive pace against the Pelicans’ defensive flashes from their young core.
Line Movement and Odds
- Bulls Spread: -5.0 (-112)
- Pelicans Spread: +5.0 (-109)
- Bulls MoneyLine: -202
- Pelicans MoneyLine: +170
- Total: 241.5 (Over -110, Under -110)
Chicago opened as road favorites, reflecting their scoring depth and New Orleans’ struggles. See full NBA odds for market movement.
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Matchup Breakdown
Chicago Bulls Outlook
Nikola Vučević scored 28 points with 12 rebounds in the 121-120 win over Washington, while Josh Giddey added his fourth triple-double of the season (18-12-11). Coby White has returned from injury, averaging 24 points and 7 assists in three games. Chicago ranks seventh in points per game (120.8) and second in rebounds (47.2), showing balance between pace and control. Matas Buzelis adds rim protection with 1.4 blocks per game, giving the Bulls defensive versatility.
New Orleans Pelicans Outlook
New Orleans fell 115-98 to Atlanta, with Saddiq Bey scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds and rookie Derik Queen adding 20 points and 9 boards. Zion Williamson (hamstring) and Jordan Poole (quadriceps) remain sidelined, forcing rookies into extended roles. The Pelicans rank second in blocks (3.3 per game) and eighth in limiting opponent field goal attempts, showing defensive potential. Trey Murphy III and Jeremiah Fears provide offensive sparks, but consistency remains elusive.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
The Bulls must continue leveraging Vučević’s scoring and Giddey’s playmaking to overwhelm New Orleans’ defense. The Pelicans need Bey and Queen to control the boards while Murphy provides perimeter scoring. Rebounding and defensive intensity will be decisive in this divisional clash.
Injuries / Availability
Chicago lists Landry Shamet (foot) and OG Anunoby (wrist) out, while Coby White has returned from his calf strain. For the most recent roster health details, check the Bulls injury report.
New Orleans remains without Zion Williamson (hamstring) and Jordan Poole (quadriceps). You can view updated lineup information on the Pelicans injury page.
Environment
The game tips at Smoothie King Center, where New Orleans is 1-7 at home. Chicago is 4-4 on the road, looking to extend their winning run. Expect a high-paced contest with both teams leaning on rebounding and transition play.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Bulls 118, Pelicans 110
- Best Bet: Bulls -5.0 (-112)
Chicago’s offensive pace and rebounding edge make them strong favorites to cover. - Total: Under 241.5 (-110)
Our model projects 228 points, leaning under given New Orleans’ offensive struggles.
Chicago’s balance of scoring and rebounding should secure the win, while New Orleans’ rookies keep them competitive. Expect a controlled game trending under the total.
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Refine your NBA betting confidence by exploring expert breakdowns in our Best Handicappers, tracking divisional streaks on the Leaderboard, and reviewing premium basketball picks in the Buy Picks section for sharper insights.
