Hornets vs. Bulls Prediction and Odds: This Game has the Makings of a Shootout

Both the Charlotte Hornets and Chicago Bulls are looking to bounce back tonight after disappointing losses over the weekend. 

The Hornets especially after losing a wild game against the Rockets with a final score of 146-143. The OT loss broke the Hornets' modest three-game win streak and dropped them to sixth in the Eastern Conference standings. Every starter on the Hornets scored in double digits yet it still wasn’t enough to win a very winnable game. At the end of the day, they were not outplayed as much as they were outworked. Somehow, that stings a bit more. 

The Bulls are also dealing with their fair share of issues lately after losing three of their last four games. The Bulls did get some extra rest after playing three games in four days and this extra energy will be very important in keeping pace with the electric Hornets. 

Here are the odds for this Eastern Conference showdown courtesy of WynnBET: 

Hornets vs. Bulls Odds, Spread, and Total

Spread:

• Hornets: +5.0 (-110)
• Bulls: -5.0 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Hornets: +175
• Bulls: -200

Total: 

• 224.0 (Over -110/Under -110)

Hornets vs. Bulls Prediction and Pick

Ignoring the recent loss to Houston, the Hornets are actually one of the hottest teams in the NBA right now. They lead the NBA in points per game with 114.2 and are third in assists per game. Where things begin to unravel for Charlotte is on the defensive side of the ball. The Hornets are 28th in the NBA in points allowed per game at 114.0 and 27th in opponents' offensive rebounds per game at 11.5. This problem is only exacerbated by the absence of Mason Plumlee who is out with a calf strain. If Charlotte could be a Top-20 defense this team could do some real damage. But, as of now, they will be fighting against themselves to eke out wins with such a weak defense. The Hornets have also struggled to cover as underdogs with a 3-6 ATS record in those instances. They are also 5-8 ATS as a road team and 4-4 after a loss. 

The Bulls match up very well against the Hornets and bring the fifth-best team in terms of defensive efficiency to the game tonight. This is another area that the Hornets rank poorly in. But, the Bulls can do it on both sides of the ball and rank 14th in points per game and sixth in average score margin. 

This is going to be a tight game but based on the offensive/defensive splits, I feel confident in the fact that it will be a high scoring affair. Take the over and hope the Hornets' defense continues to play poorly.

Pick: Hornets & Bulls OVER 224.0 (-110)