Thunder vs Bulls Prediction, Odds & Game Preview 3/31/2025

The red-hot Oklahoma City Thunder welcome the Chicago Bulls to Paycom Center Monday night in what could be a serious mismatch on paper but might offer more intrigue than the 14.5-point spread suggests.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nothing short of spectacular during OKC's current nine-game winning streak, averaging over 30 points while leading the league's top-ranked defense that's allowing just 106.9 points per game, though Chicago's surprising recent form - winning seven of their last ten - suggests they might have just enough offensive firepower to keep things interesting.

The Oklahoma City Thunder vs Chicago Bulls matchup tips off at 8 PM ET with both teams having contrasting playoff aspirations - the Western Conference-leading Thunder looking to cement their dominance while the Bulls fight to maintain their grip on the ninth seed in the East.

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Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Chicago Bulls preview

The scorching-hot Thunder, riding a nine-game winning streak and boasting the NBA's best record at 62-12, host a Bulls squad that's quietly finding their rhythm with six wins in their last nine outings at Paycom Center tonight.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been nothing short of spectacular for OKC, dropping 33 points with 7 rebounds and 8 assists in their last victory over Indiana, while leading the league's stingiest defense that surrenders just 106.9 points per game.

Chicago's offense has been clicking lately behind the emerging rookie Matas Buzelis, who exploded for 28 points in their narrow loss to Dallas, alongside the reliable duo of Coby White and Nikola Vucevic who each contributed 25 points.

The Bulls' high-tempo attack (third-fastest pace in the league) could test the Thunder, though their leaky defense allowing 119.7 points per game might struggle to contain Oklahoma City's efficient offense that's shooting over 50% in their recent games.

History favors the home team with OKC winning 7 of their last 10 against Chicago, including the first meeting this season, but injuries might play a factor with Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso listed as questionable.

While the Thunder's 14.5-point spread seems steep, their league-best 70% cover rate makes them a betting favorite, though Chicago has shown surprising grit by winning five games outright as underdogs in their last ten.

The contrast couldn't be more striking: OKC leads the NBA in forcing turnovers (17.1 per game) while Chicago ranks dead last in opponent field goals allowed – something's gotta give when these teams clash.

This matchup features a fascinating subplot with Josh Giddey facing his former team, assuming the Bulls guard can suit up through his questionable tag with a hip injury.