Memphis Grizzlies vs Chicago Bulls prediction and Betting tips -

The Chicago Bulls, without Zach LaVine, will welcome the Memphis Grizzlies at the United Centre on Saturday, January 19, before heading on a three-game road trip. They are coming off an outstanding 116-110 victory against the Toronto Raptors and will look to extend their winning streak at home against an injury-plagued Grizzlies team. Chicago has struggled at home this season, going 7-13, and this matchup gives them with an excellent opportunity to improve that record. Overall, they are 20-23 in the East and ranked ninth despite being under.500.

The Grizzlies have dominated the Bulls during the last five meetings. They are 4-1, with the latter winning the most recent encounter. The Bulls lead 30-25 in the 55 games they’ve played against each other. This time, they have the advantage as they face a depleted Memphis team.

Memphis Grizzlies vs Chicago Bulls: Preview, betting tips, and prediction

Game details:

Teams: Grizzlies vs Bulls

Date and time: Jan. 20, 2023 | 8:00 p.m. ET

Venue: United Center, Chicago

Memphis Grizzlies vs Chicago Bulls: Preview

Are the Bulls better without LaVine? In one word: yeah. They went 6-4 in their ten games without the shooting guard, who has been generating headlines as the trade deadline approaches. At one point, the Bulls went on a four-game winning streak, one of which came in overtime against the Milwaukee Bucks. They also secured victories over the Miami Heat and the Philadelphia 76ers, proving that they can win without one of their major talents.

In their recent matchup against Toronto, the team showcased prowess in the scoring area, particularly with Nikola Vucevic delivering a commendable performance on both offensive and defensive fronts. Chicago, in anticipation of Saturday’s showdown, is yearning for sustained excellence.

The Grizzlies find themselves in a dire situation, having suffered defeats in three of their past four games, marking this season as undeniably dismal. With key starters and vital rotational components sidelined due to injuries, the only beacon of optimism resides in the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Jaren Jackson Jr., who must elevate his game on both ends of the court. Currently, playoff contention seems a distant dream, and their feeble offense is exacting a toll on their standings.

Memphis Grizzlies vs Chicago Bulls: Predicted starting lineups

The Memphis Grizzlies will be missing Desmond Bane (left ankle sprain), Derrick Rose (thigh), and Marcus Smart (finger). Jake LaRavia has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 ankle sprain and will be reviewed in three weeks. This would imply that the team will most likely stick with their lineup from their previous game versus the Wolves.

Memphis’ expected starting lineup might include John Konchar, Luke Kennard, Vince Williams Jr., Jaren Jackson Jr., and Xavier Tillman.

An ankle sprain sidelined LaVine for a week. Williams (ankle) is listed as questionable. Ayo Dosunmu (shoulder) and big man Andre Drummond (back) are both listed as probable.

The Bulls return to their starting lineup of Alex Caruso, Coby White, DeMar DeRozan, Patrick Williams, and Nikola Vucevic.

Memphis Grizzlies vs Chicago Bulls: Betting tips

Spread: Grizzlies (+7.5) vs Bulls (-7.5)

Moneyline: Grizzlies (+240) vs Bulls (-300)

Total (o/u): 215.5

Player props: Jaren Jackson Jr. comes into the contest with an o/u of 24.5/25.5 (-125 over and +105 under). For the Chicago Bulls, DeMar DeRozan is 24.5/25.5 with -113/-120.