Chicago Bulls betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets – Page 13

Chicago Bulls at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Chicago Bulls at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bulls (28-15) head to the Cream City Friday for an 8 p.m. ET game against the Milwaukee Bucks (28-19) at Fiserv Forum. Below, we look at the Bulls vs. Bucks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Chicago snapped a four-game losing skid by upsetting the Cleveland Cavaliers 117-104 as a 3.5-point home underdog Wednesday. The Bulls will be without All-Star SG Zach LaVine and first-year PG Lonzo Ball. Chicago is 25-18 against the spread (ATS) and 22-20-1 Over/Under (O/U).

Milwaukee took care of business by beating the Memphis Grizzlies 126-114 Wednesday, covering as a 6.5-point home favorite and ending a two-game slide. The Bucks are 21-26 ATS and 20-27 O/U.

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast: NBA January 21 breakdown

Bulls at Bucks odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:54 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls +360 (bet $100 to win $360) | Bucks -500 (bet $500 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls +10.5 (-115) | Bucks -10.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 227.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Bulls at Bucks key injuries

Bulls

PG Lonzo Ball (knee) out
SG Zach LaVine (knee) out
PF Derrick Jones Jr. (knee) out
SF Javonte Green (hip) out

Bucks

None.

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Bulls at Bucks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 126, Bulls 107

Money line

PASS because Milwaukee is obviously the right side but the Bucks (-500) is way too expensive for an NBA regular-season money line favorite.

Plus Milwaukee is 13-6 SU as a home favorite, Chicago is 3-7 SU as a road underdog and the Bulls are missing several starters including All-Star LaVine.

Against the spread

BET the BUCKS -10.5 (-107) for 1 unit because Milwaukee is ranked in the top-10 of defensive efficiency and Chicago really struggles against good defenses.

For example, the Bulls are 4-10 straight-up (SU) versus teams with a top-10 adjusted defensive rating with a minus-9.6 points per 100 possessions (ranked 22nd) and a minus-6.4 ATS margin (ranked 29th), according to CleaningTheGlass.com (CTG).

Milwaukee is also good at keeping opponents off the free-throw line, which matters against a Chicago team, and Bulls wing DeMar DeRozan in particular, that thrive by getting to the charity stripe.

Chicago’s offensive free-throw rate increases by 5.5% when DeRozan is on the floor, which grades in the 94th percentile of wings, per CTG.

However, the Bucks are sixth in adjusted defensive free-throw rate and have plenty of wings to throw out DeRozan such as PF Giannis Antetokounmpo and SF Khris Middleton.

On top of that, Milwaukee matches up well with Chicago, stylistically. For instance, the Bucks are fifth in 3-point attempt rate and the Bulls rank 25th in defensive 3-point percentage.

Furthermore, according to ShotQuality.com, Milwaukee’s offense ranks fourth in shot quality off of catch-and-shoot 3-pointers and eighth from off-the-dribble 3-pointers.

Whereas Chicago’s defense ranks 24th in shot quality allowed against off-the-dribble 3-pointers and 20th against catch-and-shoot 3-pointers (ShotQuality.com).

Finally, this is a better spot for Milwaukee because the Bucks are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games versus teams with a 60.0% winning percentage or better, while the Bulls are 3-5 ATS on the road versus teams with a winning record and 4-6 ATS as road underdogs.

BET the BUCKS -10.5 (-107).

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 227.5 (-108) for a one-third unit because the Bulls are 4-0-1 O/U in the last five games, the Bucks are 8-2 O/U in their last 10 games as home favorites and we already discussed Chicago’s poor recent defense versus Milwaukee’s aggressive 3-point shooting.

My hesitancy with the OVER 227.5 (-108) is Chicago’s starting backcourt all lower the frequency of transition offense the Bulls play, Chicago is 2-7-1 O/U as a road underdog and the Bucks are 9-10 O/U as home favorites.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Cleveland Cavaliers at Chicago Bulls odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Cleveland Cavaliers at Chicago Bulls odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Cleveland Cavaliers (27-18) are in the Windy City Wednesday to play the Chicago Bulls (27-15) at United Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Cavaliers vs. Bulls odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Cleveland is on a roll, winning five straight and seven of its last nine games (4-3-2 ATS). The Cavs are 11th in both adjusted net rating at plus-2.4 and ATS margin at plus-2.0 in January, according to CleaningTheGlass.com (CTG).

Chicago has significantly regressed in January due to injuries. The Bulls are 4-5 straight-up (SU), 3-6 ATS and 27th in both adjusted net rating at minus-8.8 and ATS margin at minus-6.2 through the last two and a half weeks, per CTG.

The Cavs punched the Bulls in the mouth 115-92 at home as 3.5-point favorites the first time they met Dec. 8. Cleveland won all four quarters, outrebounded and outshot the Chicago from everywhere on the floor.

Cavaliers at Bulls odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:04 a.m. ET.

Money line: Cavaliers -140 (bet $140 to win $110) | Bulls +115 (bet $100 to win $115)
Against the spread (ATS): Cavaliers -2.5 (-112) | Bulls +2.5 (-108)
Over/Under (O/U): 217.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Cavaliers at Bulls key injuries

Cavaliers

SG Lamar Stevens (knee) out

Bulls

SG Alex Caruso (foot) probable
PG Lonzo Ball (knee) out
SG Zach LaVine (knee) out
SF Javonte Green (hip) out
PF Derrick Jones Jr. (knee) out

Cavaliers at Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Cavaliers 113, Bulls 104

Money line

BET 1 unit on the CAVALIERS (-140).

The Bulls were missing wing DeMar DeRozan when the Cavs spanked them last month, but they had Ball, Green and LaVine, who will all miss this meeting.

More importantly, their backups — PG Coby White, SG Ayo Dosunmu and SF Alfonzo McKinnie — all grade in the 18th percentile or lower in their respective positions at adjusted on/off net rating, per CTG.

I think the length of Cleveland’s frontcourt can make life difficult for DeRozan who likes to operate in the mid-range.

However, the reason why the Bulls have sucked this month is that they rank 29th in adjusted defensive rating. That’s not good when playing a Cleveland team that is 11-3 SU versus teams in the bottom 10 of adjusted defensive rating with the best ATS margin at plus-5.3, per CTG.

This is also a better spot for the Cavs who have the second-best ATS record in away games and the best ATS margin while the Bulls are 0-5 ATS in their last five versus teams above-.500 and 3-5 ATS on the road versus above-.500. These ATS trends are applicable since this game is priced as a coin-flip.

BET the CAVALIERS (-140).

Against the spread

PASS since Cleveland’s money line is only 25 cents on the dollar pricier than the Cavaliers -2.5 (-115). That said, the Cavs are the right side.

Over/Under

PASS since there isn’t a big enough discrepancy between my numbers and the projected score, so there’s no value in me betting the total.

For what it’s worth, Cleveland is 17-28 O/U, Chicago is 21-20-1 O/U and the Under has cashed in four of the last five Cavaliers-Bulls meetings.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Chicago Bulls at Memphis Grizzlies odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Monday’s Chicago Bulls at Memphis Grizzlies odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bulls (27-14) wrap up a quick two-game road trip when they visit the Memphis Grizzlies (30-15) Monday. Tip-off is 3:30 p.m. ET at FedExForum. Below, we look at the Bulls vs. Grizzlies odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Bulls are scuffling a bit following a recent nine-game win streak. They have lost three games in a row and four of their last five. Chicago is coming off a 114-112 defeat at the Boston Celtics Saturday.

The Grizzlies had an 11-game win streak snapped Friday against the Dallas Mavericks when they were blown out 112-85. It was the first time they were held to fewer than 100 points since Dec. 20.

Bulls at Grizzlies odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:25 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls +290 (bet $100 to win $290) | Grizzlies -380 (bet $380 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls +7.5 (-107) | Grizzlies -7.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 224.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Bulls at Grizzlies key injuries

Bulls

G Lonzo Ball (knee) out
G Alex Caruso (return to competition reconditioning) out
F Javonte Green (abductor) out
F Derrick Jones Jr. (knee) out
F Zach LaVine (knee) out
F Patrick Williams (wrist) out

Grizzlies

F Dillon Brooks (ankle) out
C Killian Tillie (health and safety protocols) out

Bulls at Grizzlies odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Grizzlies 117, Bulls 105

Money line

PASS on the money line. The Bulls are shorthanded on the road against a healthy Grizzlies team that, despite the recent loss, is playing some of the best basketball in the league. It isn’t wort betting nearly four times what you can win.

Better bets are to look at the spread and the total.

Against the spread

The Grizzlies not only have been winning basketball games, but they have also been beating the spread consistently. They covered the spread in 10 of their 11 victories in their win streak and have covered the spread in 28 of their 30 wins this season.

The Bulls are 5-4 in their last nine games, which includes the final four games of their win streak, but they have covered the spread only three times in that stretch.

It is going to be hard to keep up with the Memphis without two of their top offensive players.

Take the GRIZZLIES -7.5 (-115).

Over/Under

The Grizzlies have scored 110 or more points in 10 of their last 12 games but have only hit the Over in five of those contests.

The Bulls have had all three of their most recent losses go Over the projected total.

The Grizzlies will score enough but they will hold the Bulls to less than what is needed to get Over the projection tonight.

Take UNDER 224.5 (-108).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and, soon, IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Miami Heat at Chicago Bulls odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s Miami Heat at Chicago Bulls odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Miami Heat (12-7) travel to the “Windy City” Saturday to play the Chicago Bulls (13-7) at United Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Heat vs. Bulls odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Miami has alternated between winning and losing over its last four games with the latest being a 113-101 defeat at the Minnesota Timberwolves Wednesday. The Heat are 12-7 ATS and 11-8 O/U with the fourth-best net rating (plus-6.3).

Chicago recovered from back-to-back losses to bludgeon the Orlando Magic 123-88 Friday. The Bulls are 13-7 ATS and 8-12 O/U with the fifth-best net rating (plus-4.6).

The Heat won and covered in two of their three regular-season meetings with the Bulls last season while the Over cashed in two of those contests.

Heat at Bulls odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:37 a.m. ET.

Money line: Heat -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Bulls +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Heat -1.5 (-110) | Bulls +1.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 211.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Heat at Bulls key injuries

Heat

Nothing affecting gambling odds.

Bulls

PF Patrick Williams (wrist) out

Heat at Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Heat 107, Bulls 102

Money line

GIMME 1 unit on the HEAT (-120) because I “like” Miami’s chances of executing its offense more so than Chicago.

The Bulls run a top-5 volume of pick-and-roll action through both the ball handler and roll man, but the Heat are top-seven in defensive efficiency against pick-and-roll action through both the ball handler and roll man.

Miami generates the second-most looks off of cuts and ninth-most off of screens according to ShotQuality.com. Chicago ranks 25th in shot quality allowed vs. field goals off cuts and 27th in shot quality allowed vs. field goals off screens.

The Heat also have two elite defensive wings with very good rim protection from big Bam Adebayo, that they can throw at Bulls wings Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan. Chicago likes to operate in the mid-range and Miami has the pieces to reduce the Bulls’ effectiveness in that area.

The Heat have played better vs. elite competition than the Bulls as well. Miami is 4-2 overall with plus-8.5 points per 100 possessions and a plus-10.4 ATS margin against teams top-10 in efficiency differential, while Chicago is 3-2 overall with minus-3.5 points per 100 possessions and a minus-1.2 ATS margin.

Lastly, at the time of publishing this appears to be a “Pros vs. Joe’s” game in the betting market. More money has been wagered on Miami’s money line but more bets have been placed on Chicago according to PreGame.com and typically it’s wiser to follow the money when it’s opposite the public.

BET THE HEAT (-120).

Against the spread

PASS since Miami’s money line is only 10 cents on the dollar more expensive than the Heat -1.5 (-110). Even though Miami will most likely win by more than one point, let’s not be cheap. Stick with the Heat outright.

Over/Under

PASS with a heavy “lean” to the Under 211.5 (-115) because I think we see a lot of half-court basketball and both teams are more efficient on the defensive end of the floor. However, a vast majority of the market is betting the Under and I don’t like to follow the herd in sports betting.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Chicago Bulls at Orlando Magic odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Chicago Bulls at Orlando Magic odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bulls (12-7) wrap a quick two-game road trip when they meet the Orlando Magic (4-15) Friday. Tip-off from Amway Center is 7:00 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bulls vs. Magic odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Bulls are in first place in the Central division but have lost their last two games. They had won four of the previous five outings and six of the previous eight. G Zach LaVine and F DeMar DeRozan have carried the offensive load for the Bulls with LaVine putting up 26.1 points per game and DeRozan averaging 25.8.

The Magic have lost four games in a row and seven of their last eight. They have the worst record in the Eastern Conference and have only one win at home in eight tries this season. They have six players averaging double figures in points.

Bulls at Magic odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:30 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls -550 (bet $550 to win $100) | Magic +400 (bet $100 to win $400)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls -9.5 (-107) | Magic +9.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 211.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Bulls at Magic key injuries

Bulls

F Patrick Williams (wrist) out

Magic

G Cole Anthony (ankle) questionable
G Michael Carter-Williams (ankle) out
G Markelle Fultz (ankle) out
F Jonathan Isaac (knee) out
G Terrance Ross (back) questionable

Bulls at Magic odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 108, Magic 101

Money line

PASS on the money line. You get a huge payout to bet the Magic but you can’t bet on them. They are the worst team in the Eastern Conference, are 1-7 at home and their best players may not play.

The risk on the Bulls just isn’t worth the reward. Look at the spread and the total for your best bets.

Against the spread

Only one team has covered the spread more often than the Bulls this season, who are 12-7 ATS overall. They are 6-4 ATS on the road and are 2-3 ATS in their last five games.

The Magic are 8-11 ATS and have covered the spread in four of their last five games. They are 7-4 ATS when they are underdogs by 9.5 points or more.

Take the MAGIC +9.5 (-115).

Over/Under

The Bulls’ last game went Over the projected total, but they haven’t had back-to-back Overs this season and are 8-11 O/U. Tonight’s game has the lowest projected total for the Bulls all season.

The Magic are 10-9 O/U this season. They have had 12 previous games with a projected total of 212.5 or fewer points and seven have hit the Over.

Take UNDER 212.5 (-112).

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Chicago Bulls at Houston Rockets odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Chicago Bulls at Houston Rockets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bulls (12-6) travel to Toyota Center Wednesday to take on the Houston Rockets (1-16). Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bulls at Rockets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Led by Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, the Bulls have been far better than many expected this season.

Chicago is one of the top teams in the East but has gone just 6-4 over the last 10. The Bulls have a 6-3 record both on the road and at home. That said, Chicago is 12-6 ATS and 7-11 O/U.

The Rockets have been the exact opposite of Chicago. Houston has disappointed to the fullest extend and will look to rebound at home, but hope really isn’t there.

They’re led by rookie G Jalen Green and C Christian Wood. After a 1-1 start, the Rockets have lost 15 straight and are now easily the worst team in the NBA.

Bulls at Rockets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:10 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls -520 (bet $520 to win $100) | Rockets +370 (bet $100 to win $370)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls -8.5 (-122) | Rockets +8.5 (-102)
Over/Under (O/U): 216.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Bulls at Rockets key injuries

Bulls

C Nikola Vucevic (conditioning) questionable
G Alex Caruso (wrist) questionable
F Patrick Williams (wrist) out

Rockets

None.

Bulls at Rockets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 108, Rockets 101

Money line

PASS on the money line.

While the Bulls should come out on top against a one-win team, they’re on the road and without their starting center and potentially a key defender off the bench.

Against the spread

BET on the ROCKETS +8.5 (-122) as Chicago’s injuries should start to take their toll. I would lean towards Vucevic not playing as there’s little reason for him to return for this game.

Also, if Caruso is even questionable, it should be seen as more of a doubtful. Houston just isn’t a game that Chicago should rush their players back for. LaVine and DeRozan should be able to coast them to victory.

However, the Rockets do have some scorers and have covered several times when given these larger spreads. Houston has the 19th-worst defensive rating which is actually good relative to where it stands in other areas.

With Chicago having recently dropped out of the top-12 in offensive rating, the Rockets may be able to tame a lethal Bulls attack, especially with the length of Green and aggression of Jae’Sean Tate.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the UNDER 216.5 (-107) as the Bulls defense should be able to limit the NBA’s worst offense, Houston.

The Rockets don’t have much to brag about so far this season, and their offense has been horrendous. They’ve been held under 90 points three times and under 100 points in more than half their games.

As noted, Houston’s strength is their defense while the Bulls’ strength is also on that end of the floor. Despite the Rockets being at the top of the league in pace, they haven’t been able to convert that to scoring.

With that in mind, I’d lean the Under.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Indiana Pacers at Chicago Bulls odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Indiana Pacers at Chicago Bulls odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Indiana Pacers (7-11) travel to United Center Monday to take on the Chicago Bulls (12-5). Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Pacers vs. Bulls odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Pacers have been disappointing this season despite having one of the best five-man starting units in the Eastern Conference. With guards Malcolm Brogdon and Caris LeVert recently returned they should match up well with Chicago.

The Pacers beat the New Orleans Pelicans by 17 in their last outing, but are just 2-9 on the road which doesn’t bode well for their trip to Chicago. Indiana is 9-9 against the spread (ATS) and 6-12 on the over/under (O/U).

The Bulls added G Lonzo Ball, G Alex Caruso and F DeMar DeRozan in the offseason and have been one of the league’s most surprising teams, currently sitting atop the Eastern Conference.

The Bulls are winners of two straight games and have an impressive 6-2 record at home. They’re 12-5 ATS and 7-10 O/U. This will be the two team’s first matchup this season.

Pacers at Bulls odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:35 a.m. ET.

Money line: Pacers +133 (bet $100 to win $133) | Bulls -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Pacers +3.5 (-108) | Bulls -3.5 (-112)
Over/Under (O/U): 210.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Pacers at Bulls key injuries

Pacers

F T.J. Warren (Navicular) out

Bulls (not officially submitted)

C Nikola Vucevic (reconditioning) out

Pacers at Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 108, Pacers 105

Money line

PASS on the money line.

While I like the Bulls to win here, especially at home, the -165 just isn’t worth the risk. The Pacers have a deep and talented roster as well, and the Bulls will again be without starting All-Star-caliber Vucevic who is reconditioning after testing positive for COVID-19 in early November.

Against the spread

“LEAN” slightly to the PACERS +3.5 (-108) as their lineup is deep and has talent. Also, C Myles Turner, who has led the league in shots many times, should be able to make his presence felt against the Bulls guard-heavy play.

Indiana averages the most blocks per game while the Bulls average 55.1% of their points from two-point range, the fourth-highest rate in the NBA.

The Pacers may have a sub-.500 record, but they have a zero net rating. In other terms, they lose more games than they win, but their losses are closer than their wins. They don’t get blown out.

It’s a lean at best, but the Pacers feel like the better play, especially given the absence of Vucevic.

Over/Under

BET the OVER 210.5 (-107) as both teams should be able to put points on the board.

The Pacers are one of the most underrated three-point shooting teams in the NBA. Everyone in their starting lineup, including rookie G Chris Duarte, can hit from deep.

They have the 15th-best offensive rating and the 10th-best offensive rebounding rate. The Bulls are in the bottom half of the league in defensive rebounding rate and those extra possessions should keep the game close and boost the score.

Both teams rank in the top ten in true shooting rate as well. While Unders have been hot this season, with all the starpower and scoring present here, the Over is the better bet.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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New York Knicks at Chicago Bulls odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s New York Knicks at Chicago Bulls odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The New York Knicks (9-7) travel to United Center Sunday to take on the Chicago Bulls (11-5). Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Knicks at Bulls odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

In a battle of two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference, the Bulls will welcome the Knicks. The Bulls should be happy to be home after playing five straight on the West Coast.

However, Chicago ended its West Coast road swing with a win over the Nuggets. The Bulls are 11-5 ATS and 7-9 O/U. Chicago is led by wings Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan.

As for the Knicks, they’re currently fifth in the Eastern Conference standings. Despite their positive record, they’re just 4-6 in their last 10 games. New York is 7-9 ATS and 6-10 O/U. They’re led by star forward Julius Randle.

Knicks at Bulls odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:25 a.m. ET.

Money line: Knicks +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | Bulls -220 (bet $220 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Knicks +5.5 (-110) | Bulls -5.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 210.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Knicks at Bulls key injuries

Knicks

C Taj Gibson (groin) questionable
C Mitchell Robinson (nose) questionable
PF Obi Toppin (leg) questionable

Bulls

F Patrick Williams (wrist) out
C Nikola Vucevic (health and safety protocols) questionable

Knicks at Bulls odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 109, Knicks 103

Money line

PASS on the money line.

If anything, consider betting the Knicks at +180 as they should have a size advantage and have the defensive capabilities to at least slowdown DeRozan and LaVine. The Bulls would need to get down under -150 to be playable.

Against the spread

BET to the BULLS -5.5 (-110) as the better side of the spread. While the Knicks lost by just one to the Bulls the first time around, every other loss they’ve had was by more than five points.

With late-game fouling, I’d expect this one to be more than a couple of field goals difference as well. The Bulls rank seventh in offensive rating while the Knicks are sitting at 11th.

The difference should be seen in the defense as the Bulls rank sixth in defensive rating. The Knicks have dropped off on that side of the floor, ranking 17th.

They also have the 24th-worst net rating after the half which could lead to this game getting ugly following the break.

Over/Under

“LEAN” on the OVER 210.5 (-112) as the best value. The Knicks might be the second slowest team in the NBA, but on the road, they’ll be playing at Chicago’s pace.

The Bulls rank 14th in the league in pace and rarely turn the ball over, two things that’ll help push up their points in this one. Also, last time these two teams played, Chicago shot 43% from the field.

Given the Knicks’ elite second unit (New York bench averages the third-most points in the NBA) combined with the star power and shooting in their starting unit, and I think this Over could be the better value on the total.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

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Chicago Bulls at Denver Nuggets odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Chicago Bulls at Denver Nuggets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bulls (10-5) are in “Mile High City” Friday for a 9 p.m. ET game against the Denver Nuggets (9-6) at Ball Arena. Below, we look at the Bulls vs. Nuggets odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Chicago is 2-2 overall and ATS in the first four of its five-game Western Conference road swing. The Bulls lost to the Trail Blazers 112-107 as 3.5-point road underdogs Wednesday. Chicago is 10-5 ATS and 6-9 O/U with the fourth-ranked net rating (plus-5.2).

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast’s Daily NBA show

Denver is has lost back-to-back games to the Dallas Mavericks and Joel Embiid-less Philadelphia 76ers after winning five straight. The Nuggets are 7-8 ATS and 4-11 O/U with the eighth-best net rating (plus-3.2).

The Nuggets beat the Bulls in both regular-season meetings last year but Denver is missing two of its starters while Chicago brought in several new pieces this offseason.

Bulls at Nuggets odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:00 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls -108 (bet $108 to win $100) | Nuggets -112 (bet $112 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls +1.5 (-120) | Nuggets -1.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 208.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Bulls at Nuggets key injuries

Bulls

C Nikola Vucevic (health and safety protocols)

Nuggets

C Nikola Jokic (wrist) questionable
SF Michael Porter Jr. (back) out
PG Jamal Murray (knee) out

Bulls at Nuggets odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bulls 105, Nuggets 99

Money line

BET the BULLS (-108) because Chicago is healthier and took “sharp” money early. For instance, Chicago has been steamed down from a +148 consensus underdog down the current number, according to Pregame.com.

Furthermore, the Bulls rank 13th in adjusted shot quality differential whereas the Nuggets rank 21st, according to ShotQuality.com.

Plus Chicago’s backcourt has a huge advantage over Denver’s. Bulls guards Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso are an elite defensive backcourt whereas Nuggets guards Monte Morris and Will Barton are a below-average starting backcourt.

On top of that, no one on the Nuggets aside from Jokic can create their own look. The Bulls have two elite wings that are certified scorers (Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan).

Against the spread

PASS on the Bulls +1.5 (-120) because it doesn’t offer much insurance for our Chicago money line wager and the price is going down because of Jokic’s iffy game status. Let’s just gamble on Jokic’s availability, or lack thereof hopefully, and stick with the Bulls outright.

Over/Under

BET the UNDER 208.5 (-115) because both teams are elite defensively and their games match up well for a low-scoring game.

Chicago likes to operate in the mid-range through its two dynamic wings and Denver plays solid defensive vs. mid-range field goals.

The Nuggets also attempt a high volume of mid-range jumpers and the Bulls have the best defensive field goal percentage vs. mid-range field goals.

Additionally, Chicago relies on getting to the charity stripe at a high rate but Denver ranks fifth in defensive FT/FGA rate.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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Chicago Bulls at Portland Trail Blazers odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Wednesday’s Chicago Bulls at Portland Trail Blazers odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Chicago Bulls (10-4) visit the Rose City Wednesday to play the Portland Trail Blazers (7-8) at Moda Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Bulls vs. Trail Blazers odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions, and bets.

Chicago’s only loss over its past five games was against the first-place Golden State Warriors, a 119-93 defeat Friday. The Bulls have two stars averaging 25-plus points per game (SF DeMar DeRozan and SG Zach LaVine). Chicago is 10-4 ATS and 6-8 O/U with the fourth-best net rating (plus-5.9).

Portland has alternated between winning and losing over the past four games with the latest being a 118-113 victory Monday over the Toronto Raptors as a 3-point home favorite. The Trail Blazers are 6-9 ATS and 7-8 O/U with the 16th-best net rating (minus-0.2).

These teams split last season’s series 1-1 with the road team winning and covering both and each side of the total cashing. However, Chicago has a revamped core with several new pieces.

Bulls at Trail Blazers odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:46 p.m. ET.

Money line: Bulls -103 (bet $103 to win $100) | Trail Blazers -117 (bet $117 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Bulls +1.5 (-115) | Trail Blazers -1.5 (-107)
Over/Under (O/U): 219.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Bulls at Trail Blazers key injuries

Bulls

SG Alex Caruso (wrist) probable
SF Javonte Green (ankle) questionable
C Nikola Vucevic (health and safety protocols) out

Trail Blazers

PG Damian Lillard (abdomen) questionable
SF Norman Powell (ankle) questionable

Bulls at Trail Blazers odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Trail Blazers 114, Bulls 108

Money line

“LEAN” to the TRAIL BLAZERS (-117) because I’m waiting for the final injury report to come out before making a wager. If Dame Time and Powell miss Wednesday’s game then this is a stay away for me.

However, Portland is 6-1 overall with the highest net points per 100 possessions and the second-best spread differential, according to CleaningTheGlass.com.

Also. the Trail Blazers are due for progression up to the mean based on the quality of their shots, while the Bulls are due for regression.

According to ShotQuality.com, Portland has the seventh-best adjusted shot quality differential and Chicago is ranked 12th.

Finally, cash is pouring in on the Bulls in this spot. According to the Yahoo! Sports app, roughly 90% of the action at the time of publishing is on Chicago’s money line.

This is a good spot to fade the market because perhaps there’s some recent bias with the Bulls and bettors don’t realize how good the Trail Blazers have been in Portland this season.

Against the spread

PASS since Portland’s money line is only 10 cents on the dollar more expensive than the Trail Blazers -1.5 (-107). Portland was originally favored by 3 points, but the market steamed that number down due to the Bulls’ hot start and the questionable game status of a couple of Trail Blazers.

Over/Under

PASS since I have no read on the total. A slight majority of the bets and cash has been wagered on the Over at the time of publishing, according to the Yahoo! Sports app. There are situational trends that point to both sides of the total.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

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