Chicago Bulls (23-35) vs LA Clippers (31-26)
February 26, 2025 at 08:00 PM EST
The Line: Betting Odds: Chicago Bulls +9 — Over/Under: 229
The Los Angeles Clippers are set to face the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago. The Clippers, holding a 31-26 record, are coming off a 106-97 loss to the Detroit Pistons, where James Harden contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds, and Ivica Zubac added 13 points and 16 rebounds. Notably, Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell were absent due to rest, and Ben Simmons sat out with a left knee injury. The Clippers are currently positioned sixth in the Western Conference.
The Chicago Bulls, with a 23-35 record, recently ended a six-game losing streak by defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 142-110. In that game, they set season highs for first-half points (75) and total points (142), shooting 52% from the field in the first half. The Bulls are currently in 10th place in the Eastern Conference.
Ivica Zubac Over 12.5 Rebounds
Ivica Zubac has been a dominant force on the boards for the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 NBA season. In 55 games, he has averaged 15.4 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. His rebounding prowess is particularly impressive, ranking fourth in the league with 12.5 rebounds per game. Notably, he leads the NBA in offensive rebounds, securing 156 offensive boards this season.
Zubac is coming off a game where he secured 16 rebounds against the Pistons and two games before that he secured 15 rebounds against the Bucks. He’s one of the best rebounders in the league and has a favorable matchup going against the Bulls on Wednesday night. The Bulls are giving 55.3 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is the 2nd most in the league.
Josh Giddey Over 16.5 Points
Josh Giddey has been a key contributor to the Chicago Bulls’ offense during the 2024-25 NBA season. In 54 games, he has averaged 12.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game. Giddey’s scoring efficiency is notable, with a field goal percentage of 45.7%.
Since the Bulls got rid of Zach Lavine, Josh Giddey has stepped up in a big way for this Bulls team when it comes to a scoring perspective. Giddey has scored 16 or more points in 7 of his last 9 games highlighted by a 27-point game against the New York Knicks. Until we see Giddey slow down I’m looking to cash in on his overs.
James Harden Over 9.5 Assists
James Harden has been a pivotal playmaker for the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 NBA season. In 54 games, he has averaged 21.6 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game. Harden’s assist average of 8.6 per game ranks him sixth in the league, underscoring his role as a primary facilitator for the Clippers.
James Harden’s assists number have been inconsistent as of late but we’ve seen him have an 11 assist night against the Pacers and a 17 assist night against the Jazz just a few games ago. The Bulls have been a guard’s dream matchup this season. Chicago is giving up 29 assists per game to opposing teams which is the 2nd most in the league. Harden should have a solid night facilitating the ball in this game.