Bulls vs. Warriors prediction, odds, pick, spread

We’re back with another betting prediction and pick for Thursday’s NBA slate as we look at this next cross-conference matchup from San Francisco. The Chicago Bulls will download on Golden State Warriors as the two clubs open their season series against each other. It’s time to continue our NBA odds series with Bulls-Warriors prediction and pick.

The Chicago Bulls are currently tenth in the Eastern Conference, and last they beat the Los Angeles Clippers with 112-99. The win ended a five-game losing streak for Chicago, while they remained a team on the brink of a playoff position. They will continue their current journey as short betting underdogs in this one.

The Golden State Warriors are currently ranked 11th in the Western Conference, falling last to the Boston Celtics 125-85. They have split their last 10 games at 5-5 and will look to improve on their .500 record at home, facing the Bulls for the first time this season.

Here are the warrior bulls NBA oddscourtesy of FanDuel.

NBA odds: Bulls-Warriors odds

Chicago Bulls: +2.5 (-106)

Moneiline: +126

Golden State Warriors: -2.5 (-114)

Moneilines: -148

Over: 232.5 (-110)

Under: 232.5 (-110)

How to watch bulls vs warriors

Time: 10pm ET/ 7pm PT

TV: NBC Sports Chicago, NBC Sports Bay Area, NBA League Pass

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Why the Bulls could cover the spread/win

The Chicago Bulls looked very impressive in their latest win over the Clippers, coming back from a halftime deficit to outscore Los Angeles 36-16 in the third quarter. Zach LaVine led the way and led his team with 35 points on 11-21 shooting. He was also 8-10 from the free throw line and was very aggressive in finding shots around the rim. Josh Giddei had one assist for a triple-double, and the Bulls look like a strong team when both of their playmakers are playing well.

Patrick Williams was healthy and back in the lineup, which made the difference for the Bulls on both ends of the floor. He is able to do a little bit of everything for them and has a habit of guarding the opposition’s best player. Nikola Vucevic has been on a tear as of late, scoring 40 points in a recent win over Charlotte, so the Bulls could see their fortunes change if their key contributors continue to have solid performances.

Why the Warriors might cover the spread/win

The Warriors are still looking for their footing after a strong start to the season. Injuries have plagued them and even though Stephen Curry still has a year left in his career, a lot of that is due to the fact that he doesn’t have much help around him. Draymond Green and Jonathan Cummings are still sidelined with injuries, and the Warriors have had serious trouble getting results from their advanced spots. Look for Traice Jackson-Davis to have another big role in their offense if they want to find this win.

Dennis Schroder has been a great addition to the Warriors’ scoring lineup, but has fallen short of averaging 15 PPG in four of his last five games. Without some of the shooters they’ve had in the past, the Warriors will have to get creative with their ball movement and finding scoring options outside of just Stephen Curry. Look for Andrew Wiggins to continue to be aggressive with the basketball while carrying the mid-range load.

Final Bulls-Warriors Prediction & Pick

This will be the first meeting between these two teams and while the Warriors have had a slightly better season so far, the Chicago Bulls are playing much better complementary basketball at the moment with many of their stars waking up with big games. It will be interesting to see how the Warriors guard the Bulls’ taller lineup in the paint and how much of an effect Kuminga and Green’s absences will continue to have.

The Bulls are 20-23 ATS this season and 10-11 ATS during their games. The Warriors remain level with a 20-22 ATS record on the season, but are 14-10 when listed as betting favorites. Their best chance of winning this game will be behind another heroic performance from Stephen Curry and their goal from deep.

Regardless, I like the Chicago Bulls to cover this spot on the road as Josh Giddy will have a solid matchup during this one. Zach LaVine will also see a mismatch from the Warriors’ defensemen, so don’t be surprised if the Bulls can get out to an early lead in this matchup. Let’s roll with Chicago and the points on the road.

Final Bulls-Warriors Prediction & Pick: Chicago Bulls +2.5 (-106)