Memphis Grizzlies vs. Chicago Bulls: Matchup Preview and Betting Insights

The Memphis Grizzlies and Chicago Bulls are set to face off for the second time this season in a highly anticipated NBA matchup. Their first encounter ended in a thrilling 126-123 victory for Chicago, and both teams have since experienced a mix of successes and challenges as the season progresses.

Currently, the Chicago Bulls hold a 7-10 record and have been inconsistent, achieving a 2-3 record over their last five games. Despite these struggles, the Bulls recently came off an impressive 136-122 win against the Atlanta Hawks. Zach LaVine has been their standout performer, leading the team in scoring in five of the past seven matchups. The Bulls have found less success on their home court, where they are 2-5 this season. Additionally, Chicago is 1-2 in back-to-back games, which raises questions about their stamina and performance for this coming matchup against Memphis. 

Meanwhile, the Memphis Grizzlies have a 9-7 record but share similar recent performance statistics to Chicago, with a 2-3 record in their latest five games. Ja Morant and Marcus Smart’s injuries are significant blows to the Grizzlies, impacting their lineup flexibility and team dynamics. However, Memphis enters the upcoming game with a rest advantage, having had two full days off, which could play a crucial role in tipping the scales in their favor. That said, their performance on the road has been shaky, reflected in their 1-3 record in recent away games.

This game is scheduled to take place at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, with tip-off set for 8:10 PM ET and will be available for streaming on NBA TV. The leading analysts suggest Memphis currently holds the upper hand in betting, with a money line of -220 and favored by 5.5 points against the Bulls, who stand at +180.

The Grizzlies are optimistic about surpassing 60.5 points in the first half, given Chicago’s poor defensive efficiency, which ranks 25th in the league. Observations by Vaughn Dalzell of NBC Sports highlight Chicago’s defensive vulnerabilities, evidenced by the average 64.4 points allowed per first half over their last five games. «Chicago’s defense has struggled lately,» Dalzell noted. «The Grizzlies could capitalize, especially in the first half, given their rest advantage.»

Projected Lineups:

For the Memphis Grizzlies, Jaylen Wells replaces the injured Marcus Smart, joining Scotty Pippen Jr. in the backcourt. Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Brandon Clarke round out their front, as they aim to leverage their rest and recuperation against Chicago.

Conversely, the Chicago Bulls will look to Zach LaVine for offensive potency alongside Josh Giddey, Coby White, Torrey Craig, and Nikola Vucevic. With Patrick Williams sidelined, the Bulls will need to manage their rotation carefully to stand a chance at repeating their previous success against Memphis.