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Pelicans Aim to Bounce Back, Open Seson vs. Bulls

The Bulls and the Pelicans will both be trying to pick up a win when they battle at Smoothie King Center.

(Photo by Getty Images) Zion Williamson

Chicago (0-0) at New Orleans (0-0)

  • When: Oct 23 2024, 8:00 PM
  • Where: Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
  • TV: Gulf Coast Sports

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Chicago Bulls @ New Orleans Pelicans
Moneyline

Chicago Bulls   +205
New Orleans Pelicans   -245

Chicago Bulls @ New Orleans Pelicans
Point Spread

Chicago Bulls   6.5 (-115)
New Orleans Pelicans   -6.5 (-105)

Chicago Bulls @ New Orleans Pelicans
Total

Over   227.0 (-110)
Under   227.0 (-110)

Key Players:
Chicago: Zach LaVine
New Orleans: Zion Williamson

Team Stats

Bulls   Pelicans
0-0 Record 0-0
0-0 Away & Home 0-0
0-0 ATS 0-0
O/U

Last Matchup:
CHI 114-106, February 25th, 2024

Game Preview

The New Orleans Pelicans and Chicago Bulls both explored trading their star players—Brandon Ingram and Zach LaVine—this offseason, but neither found a deal that met their expectations. As a result, both Ingram and LaVine remain with their respective teams as they prepare to face each other in the season opener on Wednesday night in New Orleans. Bettors should keep an eye on both players’ performances as trade rumors may impact their motivation and consistency throughout the season.

Both teams made significant offseason moves to improve their chances in the competitive NBA landscape. New Orleans added Dejounte Murray in a trade with Atlanta, although the Pelicans are dealing with uncertainty at center after trading Jonas Valančiūnas to Washington. With Murray joining Ingram and Zion Williamson, the Pelicans’ offense could be more dynamic, making them a team to watch for overs in scoring props or fast-paced games. However, New Orleans may rotate between several unproven options at center, potentially creating value for opposing teams in the paint.

Head coach Willie Green emphasized his team’s focus on effort and discipline, key factors that could influence bettors considering the Pelicans in spread bets or total points. New Orleans won 49 games last season but was swept in the playoffs after advancing through the play-in tournament. Injuries to key players, including Williamson and a banged-up Ingram, contributed to the early exit.

The Chicago Bulls, who finished last season at 39-43, are looking to break through after missing the playoffs. During the offseason, they traded DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso, bringing in Chris Duarte and Josh Giddey to inject youth and speed into the lineup. Head coach Billy Donovan plans to implement a faster tempo, which may lead to higher-scoring games or a deeper rotation for bettors considering player props or team totals.

Donovan’s plan to rotate 10 players suggests Chicago will aim for a high-energy style, which could offer value in betting on totals or pace-related props. LaVine acknowledged the trade rumors swirling around him but remains committed to staying level-headed through the ups and downs of the season. His focus could impact his individual performance, making him a player to consider for points props or as a key factor in Chicago’s success against the spread.

While Ingram and LaVine remain with their teams for now, both could be on the move later in the season, adding an extra layer of intrigue for futures bets or long-term wagers on team performance. For now, with both teams aiming to establish momentum early, bettors should watch closely to see how these roster changes and player dynamics play out.

2025 Super Bowl LIX Odds

NBA Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: New Orleans 116-107
The Pick: New Orleans -6½ (-105) & Under 227
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $373

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