The Oklahoma City Thunder (35-22) are currently 6th in the standings, while the Chicago Bulls are 10th in the Eastern Conference with 20 wins and 38 losses. Surprisingly, although the difference between wins and losses is large, both teams remain in contention for the playoffs.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City is one of the hottest teams in the league, with 12 wins in their last 15 games, including the last 3 games. The team, which was criticised by many basketball analysts before the season, is far exceeding expectations. Averaging 111 points per game and 47% on 47% from the field, the team shines on the offensive end, with the young talent of S. Gilgeous-Alexander making a big contribution. One of the most improved players in the league this season, he is scoring just over 19 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. Gilgeous-Alexander also doesn't shy away from taking the lead at crucial moments and together with All-Star veteran Chris Paul, he forms a solid defensive line tandem.
Although there were rumours before the season that Chris Paul would ask to be traded and would not want to play for a team with little chance of making the playoffs, this has not happened. The point guard is showing great form and has been a pleasant surprise for all Oklahoma City Thunder fans. The team, which has won 8 consecutive road games, is the clear favourite to extend this streak in tomorrow's game.
Chicago Bulls
Unlike the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Chicago Bulls are currently going through one of their worst streaks of the season. The Bulls, who have lost 10 of their last 14 games, are averaging just 106 points per game and 109 turnovers. Looking at the team's line-up, you might get the impression that this team is promising and just needs to get going, but the constant injuries are preventing that from happening. For example, in the last game against the Washington Wizards, the Chicago Bulls had as many as 7 players out. W. Dunn, C. Hutchison, L. Kornet, L. Markkanen, O. Porter and D. Valentine. It is not yet clear if any of them will play in tomorrow's game, but it is unlikely.
The main source of optimism for the Chicago Bulls is the excellent defender Z. LaVine, who has developed from a league average player to a team leader. With 25 points and 5 rebounds per game, the point guard is the Chicago Bulls' undisputed leader. Rookie Cody White is also making his presence felt amidst the team's injury woes, averaging 12 points off the bench.
The Chicago Bulls have a lot of potential, but as things stand, it would be naive to expect a good performance against one of the better teams in the league.
Forecast
The Chicago Bulls are one of the worst defending teams in the league, while the Oklahoma City Thunder are currently one of the hardest teams to stop in the league. In 26 road games, Oklahoma City has covered the spread in 21 of them, so a similar scenario can be expected in this game. The Chicago Bulls relied on just 8 rotation players against the Wizards, and something similar can be expected in this game.
Oklahoma City Thunder -5.5, 1.9 kof. betsafe
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