Toronto Raptors Vs Chicago Bulls Prediction, Preview, And Betting Odds
The Chicago Bulls and Toronto Raptors are set to clash in an exciting matchup on Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 05:30 PM ET at the Scotiabank Arena (Toronto). Here’s a comprehensive preview of the game, including betting odds, and a game prediction.
Match Prediction Chicago Bulls vs Toronto Raptors
This is a tough game to call, but I think the Raptors have the edge at home. They have a more balanced offense and they are playing with more confidence right now. I’m going to predict a Raptors win by 5 points.
Head to Head
- All-Time: Bulls lead 57-48 (54.3%)
- This Season: Split 1-1, both games decided by 1 point
- Last 5 Meetings: Raptors 3-2 (60% win rate)
- Points per game: Raptors 102.7, Bulls 103.1
- Opponent points per game: Raptors 103.1, Bulls 102.7
Chicago Bulls vs Toronto Raptors Preview
The Toronto Raptors (18-14) host the Chicago Bulls (16-17) in a battle for Eastern Conference playoff positioning. Both teams are coming off wins, with the Raptors edging the Indiana Pacers by 5 points and the Bulls defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves by 16 points.
The Raptors have been inconsistent this season, but they are starting to find their rhythm with Pascal Siakam leading the way. Siakam is averaging 25.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, and he has been getting help from Fred VanVleet (20.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 7.2 assists) and OG Anunoby (18.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.8 steals).
The Bulls have also been up and down this season, but they have shown signs of life lately with DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine playing well together. DeRozan is averaging 26.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, while LaVine is averaging 24.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.
Toronto Raptors vs Chicago Bulls Betting Odds
- Spread: Raptors -5.5 (-110), Bulls +5.5 (-110)
- Moneyline: Raptors -210, Bulls +170
- Over/Under: 217.5 points (Over -105, Under -115)
Key Players:
- Toronto Raptors: Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby
- Chicago Bulls: DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, Nikola Vucevic
Injuries:
- Toronto Raptors: None
- Chicago Bulls: Lonzo Ball (out), Javonte Green (out)
FAQs for Chicago Bulls vs Toronto Raptors
How is Toronto Raptors in the NBA?
The Raptors joined the NBA in 1995 as an expansion team alongside the Western Conference’s Vancouver Grizzlies. The two expansion teams were the first NBA franchises based in Canada.
Who founded the Raptors?
The team was formalized on November 4, 1993, when the NBA Board of Governors endorsed the decision of the Expansion Committee and awarded its 28th franchise to a group headed by Toronto businessman John Bitove for a then-record expansion fee of US$125 million.
Who owns the Toronto Raptors?
Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), one of the world’s premier sports and entertainment companies, owns the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), Toronto FC (MLS), Toronto Argonauts (CFL), Toronto Marlies (AHL), Raptors 905 (NBA G League), TFC II (MLS Next Pro) and Raptors Uprising Gaming Club.
When did the Bulls join the NBA?
On January 16, 1966, Chicago was granted a National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise to be called the Bulls. The Chicago Bulls became the third NBA franchise in the city, after the Chicago Stags (1946–1950) and the Chicago Packers/Zephyrs (1961–1963, now the Washington Wizards).
Read More: New York Knicks Vs Washington Wizards Prediction, Preview, And Betting Odds
Conclusion
The Raptors vs. Bulls matchup is a must-watch game for NBA fans. Both teams are fighting for playoff position and it should be a close one. I’m excited to see what happens!
I still predict a close game with the Raptors having a slight edge at home, but they can’t afford to be complacent. If the Bulls manage to shut down Siakam or limit his impact, they have a chance to steal the win.
