The Chicago Bulls travel to face the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night at the Kia Center. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM ET, with both teams coming off contrasting performances. Orlando has been on a roll despite injuries, while Chicago looks to build momentum after a dominant win against Washington.
This matchup highlights two teams moving in different directions. The Magic’s strong play has kept them near the top of the Eastern Conference, while the Bulls struggle for consistency. Will Chicago step up against a surging Orlando squad?
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls are 8-11 on the season, fighting to find a rhythm. They snapped a losing streak with a 127-108 victory over the Wizards, led by Coby White, who scored 21 points and added eight rebounds. Nikola Vučević also contributed with 19 points and 12 boards, showcasing his consistency in the paint.
Despite this win, the Bulls’ struggles remain evident. They’ve gone 5-9 in November, often plagued by poor defense and turnovers. Lonzo Ball, recovering from a wrist injury, is expected to return after a 15-game absence. Ball’s defensive energy and playmaking ability could provide a much-needed boost off the bench.
Chicago will need more from Zach LaVine, who scored 18 points on 6-of-14 shooting against the Wizards. LaVine’s ability to create offense will be crucial against Orlando’s strong defense. If the Bulls can limit turnovers and find open looks, they might challenge the Magic’s home dominance.
Orlando Magic
The Magic are 12-7 and have won 9 of their last 10 games, thanks to Franz Wagner. Wagner has been sensational, averaging 27.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 7 assists over his last 10 games. His all-around performance has carried Orlando in the absence of Paolo Banchero, who remains out with an oblique injury.
Orlando’s bench stepped up in their 95-84 win over Charlotte. Cole Anthony, Moritz Wagner, Jonathan Isaac, and Anthony Black all scored in double figures, combining for 55.8% of the team’s points. This depth has been critical as injuries have limited the starting lineup.
The expected return of Jalen Suggs and Wendell Carter Jr. will provide additional firepower for the Magic. Gary Harris, however, remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. If Orlando can continue to lock down defensively and share the scoring load, they’ll remain tough to beat at home.
Pick and Prediction
Orlando’s strong recent form, depth, and the emergence of Franz Wagner make them the favorites in this matchup. Chicago’s inconsistency and reliance on individual performances could make it difficult to overcome the Magic’s cohesive play and defensive discipline.
Expect Orlando to control the tempo and capitalize on Chicago’s defensive lapses. The return of Suggs and Carter Jr. will add stability, helping the Magic secure another home victory.
- Prediction: Orlando Magic 112, Chicago Bulls 102
