Rockets vs. Bulls: 3 Best Bets
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For the second and final time this season, the Houston Rockets will tip off against the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls won the only other matchup in an overtime thriller, but have gone cold as of late, going 3-3 over the last six, while Houston is riding a win streak of six games.
The Rockets have been bitten by the injury bug, but continue to play quality basketball while there is still hope that they can usurp the Golden State Warriors for the last spot in the Play-In Tournament. Jalen Green has been living up to the hype and looks comfortable in the driver's seat.
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Tonight, Houston will be without Cam Whitmore, Tari Eason, Steven Adams, and Alperen Sengun. Chicago won't play Julian Phillips, Lonzo Ball, Patrick Williams, and Zach LaVine. Alex Caruso and Coby White are questionable.
Keep it posted here for our three best bets, powered by the lines at SI Sportsbook.
The Lines
Point spread: Bulls +3.5 (-110)/Rockets -3.5 (-118)
Money line: Bulls (+140)/Rockets (-175)
Over/under: 218.5
Our Picks
Safe pick: Jalen Green OVER 24.5 points (-110)
The Houston Rockets belong to Jalen Green for the rest of the season. Over his last ten games, he has averaged 27.3 points and tied his career high. If Alex Caruso doesn't play, the -110 odds for this bet is highway robbery, and one of our safest picks all year.
Opponent pick: DeMar DeRozan OVER 22.5 points (-133)
Not as good of a value as Geen's line, but DeRozan should easily hit 23 points. Sure, he only posted 19 in the previous matchup with the Bulls, but now he is firmly the primary scoring option in Chicago. Plus, his 24.2 points per game over his last five inspire some confidence.
Team pick: Rockets -3.5 (-118)
The Rockets are playing for a Play-In spot, and while it might be hard to get, Houston firmly believes that they can make the postseason. Chicago is currently in the Play-In Tournament but does not look inspired or eager for their season to last any longer than it has to. Expect the Rockets to show out for the home fans.
