NBA Underdog of the Day (Paul George, Clippers Live to Upset Bulls)

I’ll be the first one to say it: The Los Angeles Clippers are contenders in the Western Conference. 

That’s right. 

The Clippers have been able to tread water all season long without Kawhi Leonard, and they’ve only had Paul George in 27 of their games. However, George returned to the lineup on Tuesday, and Los Angeles came back from 25 down to upset the Utah Jazz. 

Could a similar result be in store on Thursday? The Clippers are underdogs at WynnBET Sportsbook against the Chicago Bulls, but I think they may be underrated in this game. 

Chicago has struggled as of late, falling to the No. 5 spot in the Eastern Conference, and I think it is in danger of being upset tonight. 

Clippers vs. Bulls Odds, Spread and Total

Spread:

• Clippers +3.5 (-110)
• Bulls -3.5 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Clippers: +130
• Bulls: -160

Total:

• 221 (Over -110/Under -110)

Why Clippers Are Solid Upset Pick vs. Bulls

George’s return changes a lot of things for this Clippers team, as his impact on the roster is undeniable. Los Angeles has struggled on the offensive end for most of the 2021-22 season, but having a go-to guy like George back in the lineup, the Clippers are instantly a much more dangerous team. 

Not only that, but Los Angeles has been able to establish some key rotation players in the time that George has been out. Still, here’s how much better the Clippers are when he plays, versus when he doesn’t: 

Paul George’s Impact on the Clippers

Record

• With George: 15-2
• Without George: 22-27

Net Rating

• With George: Plus-1.5
• Without George: Minus-3.4

Entering this game, it is important to look at the current form of these two teams. 

As much as the Bulls impressed everyone to start the season, they have fallen off over their last 10 games, ranking 29th in the league in offensive rating and 13th in defensive rating. 

The Clippers haven’t been any better, ranking 25th and 26th in those categories, but they are also eight in defensive rating for the season. The defensive regression as of late is concerning, but they’ve also played just one game with George back in the lineup. 

I won’t disregard the fact that the Bulls are the best team in the NBA against the spread as a home favorite (20-7), but I think this Clippers team is a lot better than it is getting credit for now that George is back. 

I’ll take a shot on Los Angeles to pull off the upset on Thursday night. 

Lean: Clippers Moneyline (+130)

Find Peter Dewey’s full betting record in the NBA this season here.