The Chicago Bulls will look to get back on track tonight when the Charlotte Hornets come to town. Here are the latest odds and things to keep an eye on.
The Chicago Bulls entered the All-Star break on a six-game losing streak. That losing streak made their goal of reaching the playoffs incredibly more difficult than it was before said losing streak, but they’re still in the hunt.
Tonight, the Bulls will take on Devonte’ Graham and a Charlotte Hornets team also fighting for the eight seed in the Eastern Conference. The Bulls are only 0.5 games ahead of the Hornets, so the result of tonight’s game will definitely play a factor in each teams’ likelihood of sneaking into the playoffs.
Containing Devonte’ Graham
The Hornets have been one of the league’s biggest surprises this season. They’re not good, but they’re way better than most people thought they’d be. Most of that is due to the breakout season their sophomore point guard, Devonte’ Graham, is having.
On the season, Graham is averaging over 18 points and nearly eight assists per game. He could stand to be more efficient (shooting under 38 percent from the field), but he’s proven to be a legitimate floor general with incredible upside on both offense and defense.
If the Bulls want to walk away with a win tonight, it’ll start with their ability to contain Graham. When he gets cooking from behind the 3-point line, they’re a tough team to beat.
Graham’s a scrappy player and has a tough mentality. He won’t be going down without a fight tonight in Chi-Town. Plus, he’s used to the United Center after spending All-Star Weekend competing in the 3-point contest and the Rising Stars game.
Bulls odds against Hornets
All odds are courtesy of The Action Network and are current as of 3 pm CT.
This line makes sense. The Bulls have been the better team for most of the season and are at home, but I would have a tough time betting on Zach LaVine and Co. tonight. The Bulls are dealing with an assortment of injuries and the Hornets are one of the league’s scrappiest teams.
Prediction: The Hornets cover the spread and win the game.