Chicago Bulls (18-21) vs Atlanta Hawks (19-19)
Game Info: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 8:00 pm (United Center)
Betting Odds: Chicago Bulls -2.5 -- Over/Under: 245.5 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: NBA League Pass
The Chicago Bulls (18-20) are set to host the Atlanta Hawks (19-19) on January 15, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago. This matchup marks the fourth meeting between the two teams this season, with Chicago leading the series 2-1.
The Bulls have been averaging 117.2 points per game, shooting 46.6% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc. Defensively, they have allowed 121.1 points per game. Key contributors include Nikola Vučević, averaging 20.3 points and 10.1 rebounds per game, and Zach LaVine, leading the team with 3.3 three-pointers made per game.
The Hawks have been scoring 117.9 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 46.6% and a three-point shooting percentage of 35.5%. They have allowed 119.4 points per game on defense. Trae Young leads the team with 22.5 points and 12.1 assists per game, while Jalen Johnson contributes 19.9 points and 10.2 rebounds per game.
Clint Capela Over 9.5 Rebounds
Clint Capela has been a consistent presence on the boards for the Atlanta Hawks during this season. He’s averaging 8.9 rebounds per game over 38 games, with 5.7 defensive rebounds and 3.3 offensive rebounds per game. In addition to his rebounding, Capela contributes 11.0 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 65.0%.
This is a great matchup for Capella to have a monster night on the boards. The Bulls are giving up 55.2 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is the third most in the league. The last time these teams played was back on December 26th, 2024 and in that game, Capella secured 15 rebounds. I don't see a world where he doesn't have double-digit rebounds in this game.
Trae Young Over 24.5 Points
Trae Young has been a pivotal scorer for the Atlanta Hawks. He’s averaging 22.5 points per game, ranking 26th in the league. In addition to his scoring, Young leads the league with 12.1 assists per game, while also contributing 3.4 rebounds per game. However, his shooting efficiency has room for improvement, with a field goal percentage of 40.1%.
This Chicago Bulls team plays at one of the fastest paces in the whole league which results in them giving up a ton of points. Chicago gives up 120.8 points per game to opposing teams which is the second most in the league. The last time these teams played Trae Young and this Hawks team had a combined 141 points. In what should be a high scoring fast-paced game I love backing the Hawks' main scorer.
Zach Lavine Over 2.5 Three Pointers
Zach LaVine has been a consistent perimeter threat for the Chicago Bulls this NBA season. As He’s averaging 3.3 made three-pointers per game on 7.3 attempts, resulting in a 45.0% three-point shooting percentage. In addition to his three-point shooting, LaVine contributes 24.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, with an overall field goal percentage of 51.7%.
We've seen Zach Lavine have over 2.5 three-pointers in five of his last six games and he's coming off a game where he made five three-pointers against the Sacramento Kings. Zach LaVine is currently one of the hottest scorers in the league, scoring 30 or more points in his last six games. Now he gets to go against his Hawks team that's giving up 15.5 pointers per game to opposing teams which is the most in the league. Expect a big night from Zach LaVine beyond the arc.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
