Game Preview
The Chicago Bulls (10-15) are set to host the struggling Charlotte Hornets (7-17) on Friday night in what could be a high-scoring affair. While both teams have struggled to find consistency this season, the Bulls have shown glimpses of offensive firepower, especially over their last 5 games where they've averaged a blistering 146.6 points per contest.
Chicago's recent offensive surge has been fueled by a scorching 49.9 percent shooting clip from the field and an impressive 37.6 assists per game over their last 5 outings. They've also crashed the boards with authority, grabbing nearly 52 rebounds a night during this stretch. Defensively, however, the Bulls have been leaky, surrendering 120.8 points per game over their last 5 contests.
The Hornets, on the other hand, have scuffled to find their rhythm on offense. Over their last 10 games, Charlotte has mustered just 114.3 points per game on a pedestrian 42.8 percent shooting from the field. Their struggles have been compounded by a 73.6 percent clip from the free throw line during this span. While not prolific scorers, the Hornets have held opponents to just 110.5 points per game over their previous 10 outings, a slight positive amid their offensive woes.
With both teams looking to turn their seasons around, this matchup has the makings of a high-scoring affair if the Bulls can maintain their recent offensive explosion. However, the Hornets' stingy defense could make every possession valuable for Charlotte as they seek to slow down Chicago's potent attack. Whichever team can impose its recent trends on the other could tilt this intriguing interconference clash in their favor.