The Chicago Bulls will face the Houston Rockets on March 21 (Thursday) at the Toyota Center. This is the second matchup between the two teams this season, with the Bulls winning the first one in overtime. Coby White scored 30 points in that matchup. The Houston Rockets are currently on a five-game winning streak and if they win the upcoming matchup, it will take them closer to 10th place in the Western Conference.Â
Preview
The Bulls are currently on a two-game winning streak and are yet to hit the .500 mark this season. They have a four-game lead over the Atlanta Hawks and are trailing behind the Philadelphia 76ers. A win on Thursday will cement their place for the playoffs. Chicago ranks 19th in the defensive and offensive ratings, respectively.Â
The Rockets are currently a better team in terms of firepower. They rank 21st in the offensive rating and eighth in the defensive rating. However, the Golden State Warriors’ win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday has made things tougher for them.Â
Starting lineupÂ
The Bulls most likely will be without Coby White in the upcoming contest. Chicago is expected to start with Ayo Dosunmu, DeMar DeRozan, Alex Caruso, Torrey Craig and Nikola Vucevi.Â
On the other hand, the Rockets will most likely start with Fred VanVleet, Jalen Green, Amen Thompson, Dillon Brooks and Jabari Smith.Â
Betting tips & PredictionÂ
DeMar DeRozan has an over/under of 22.5 points for the upcoming contest. He has been performing well for the Bulls, so you can take the risk and bet on him to go over.Â
Jalen Green has an over/under of 24.5 points. You can bet on him to go under.Â
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The Houston Rockets are favorites to win as they have the home court advantage. The Chicago Bulls might get short because of White’s absence for the upcoming game. Expect the Rockets to win against the Bulls and cover the spread as well.Â