NBA · December 14, 2025
New Orleans Pelicans @ Chicago Bulls
Free LineCrush game report for New Orleans Pelicans @ Chicago Bulls on December 14, 2025, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Pelicans' Upset Capability Despite Dismal Record
New Orleans enters at 4-22 but proved they can compete with elite teams by defeating Chicago 143-130 on November 24. The Pelicans' offensive firepower and recent confidence cannot be ignored, especially at home where they've shown more competitive performances than on the road.
Zion Williamson's Absence Remains Critical
Williamson has missed the last six games after posting 29 points in the Pelicans' previous win over Chicago. His health status will be the determining factor for New Orleans' offensive ceiling in this matchup, as the team struggles to generate consistent scoring without him.
Josh Giddey Driving Bulls' Offensive Engine
Giddey leads Chicago with 20.5 PPG, 9.4 RPG, and 9 APG, establishing himself as a complete two-way player. The Bulls' offensive success hinges on Giddey's playmaking and ability to control pace, particularly against a Pelicans defense that ranks poorly in several categories.
Defensive Vulnerabilities on Both Sides
Both teams rank poorly defensively, with the Pelicans allowing 119.3 PPG and the Bulls giving up 123.5 PPG. This creates a high-scoring environment that favors teams with reliable scoring options, mirroring their 143-130 shootout in November.
Three-Point Shooting Disparity
Chicago struggles with three-point shooting at 11.1 per game (ranked 29th) compared to New Orleans' 13.8 per game (ranked 21st). The Pelicans' superior perimeter efficiency could provide an advantage in a track meet-style game.
Pick Ideas
Over the Total
Both teams have played to a 143-130 scoreline recently and rank among the league's worst defensively, suggesting another high-scoring affair with the total likely exceeding 230+ points.
Josh Giddey Over 9.5 Assists
Giddey averages 9 APG and faces a Pelicans defense that allows 28.6 assists per game, creating favorable conditions for him to exceed his assist prop.
Pelicans Moneyline Value
New Orleans just defeated Chicago at home and has head-to-head momentum, making them undervalued given their recent 143-130 victory despite their 4-22 record.
Trey Murphy III Over 20.5 Points
Murphy leads the Pelicans at 21.2 PPG and Chicago's perimeter defense struggles significantly, offering value on Murphy maintaining his scoring average in a game likely to feature high offensive output.