Chicago Bulls (18-21) vs New Orleans Pelicans (8-32)
Game Info: Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 8:00 pm (United Center)
Betting Odds: Chicago Bulls -2.5 -- Over/Under: 237.5 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: NBA League Pass
The Chicago Bulls (18-21) are set to host the New Orleans Pelicans (8-32) on January 14, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago. The Bulls, currently holding the tenth spot in the Eastern Conference, have shown offensive prowess, averaging 118.2 points per game, ranking fourth in the league. However, their defense has been a concern, allowing 120.8 points per game, the second-worst in the NBA. Zach LaVine has been a standout performer, scoring 30 or more points in six consecutive games.
On the other hand, the Pelicans have faced significant challenges this season, holding the second-worst record in the Western Conference. Injuries to key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram have hampered their performance. Despite the backcourt efforts of Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum, the team has struggled on both ends of the floor, scoring just 107.2 points per game (fifth worst) and conceding 117.2 points per game (sixth worst).
Yves Missi Over 8.5 Rebounds
Yves Missi, the New Orleans Pelicans' rookie center, has demonstrated impressive rebounding abilities. He’s averaging 8.3 rebounds per game, ranking 23rd in the league. In addition to his rebounding, Missi contributes 9.1 points and 1.5 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 55.3%.
Missi has been quiet on the boards as of late only getting over eight rebounds once in his last five games. Even with Zion back in Action Missi is still this Pelicans team's largest presence in the paint. This is a spot he'll bounce back in when it comes to rebounding with facing the Chicago Bulls which have been an awful rebounding team this season. The Bulls are giving up 55.2 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is the third most in the whole league. This is a great buy-low spot for Missi on the glass.
Josh Giddey Over 6.5 Assists
Josh Giddey has been a key playmaker for the Chicago Bulls so far this season. He’s averaging 6.7 assists per game, ranking 14th in the league. In addition to his assists, Giddey contributes 11.9 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, with a field goal percentage of 44.4%. Notably, on December 29, 2024, Giddey returned from a four-game absence due to a sprained ankle and achieved a triple-double with 23 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Josh Giddy has cleared this line of 6.5 assists in his last two games and I expect him to have another great night dishing the rock on Tuesday. We've seen guards have success against this New Orleans Pelicans team this season. The Pelicans are giving up 28 assists per game to opposing teams which is well above the league average. This should be a great spot for Giddy to facilitate the ball and clear this line.
Zach Lavine Over 27 Points
Zach LaVine has been a standout scorer for the Chicago Bulls. He’s averaging 24.0 points per game, ranking 17th in the league. In addition to his scoring, LaVine contributes 4.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 51.7%. Notably, on December 26, 2024, LaVine scored a season-high 37 points, including 22 points in the third quarter, during a game against the Atlanta Hawks.
Zach Lavine has quietly been one of the hottest players in the league in the month of January. He has scored 30 or more points in his last six games and is coming off a game against the Sacramento Kings where he put up 36 points. I don't see him slowing down in this spot going against this New Orleans Pelicans team that has been awful on the defensive side of the ball. Expect another monster game from Zach Lavine.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
