Game Preview
The Chicago Bulls (8-13) will host the Brooklyn Nets (9-11) in a matchup of two teams looking to turn their seasons around. The Bulls have struggled out of the gate, dropping two straight and sitting at just 38.1% on the year. Their offense has been a bright spot, averaging nearly 119 points on 47.6% shooting from the field. However, defensive lapses have plagued Chicago, surrendering over 124 points per contest.
Brooklyn enters on a down note after losing their last game, but the Nets have been competitive at 45% for the season. They've leaned on a balanced attack, scoring 111.8 points while allowing 114.8 - a much narrower differential than their hosts. The Nets have been slightly more efficient, shooting 46.9% from the floor and 39% from deep.
Recent form could favor Brooklyn, as they've won 3 of their last 5 while the Bulls are just 2-3 over that span. The Nets have picked up their outside shooting, hitting 43.9% from three, and maintained a positive scoring margin. Chicago has scored in bunches with 128.4 points per game, but their defensive issues persist, allowing 128.6 during this stretch.
Both teams will look to seize momentum, but the Nets' steadier overall play could give them an edge against the streaky Bulls. Brooklyn has been more consistent on both ends, while Chicago has struggled to find a balance between their prolific offense and porous defense. If the Nets can maintain their recent three-point shooting and control the scoring margin, they may have enough to overcome the Bulls' firepower in Chicago.