The Bulls and Heat will face off for the eighth and final seed in the Eastern Conference playoff picture on Friday, April 19, at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN. The Heat are coming off a close one-point loss to the Sixers on Wednesday, while the Bulls dominated the Atlanta Hawks in a 131-116 victory.
They split their season series 2-2, with most games hitting the OVER. Miami won the last match 118-116 back in December. Due to all four games being back-to-back earlier in the season, neither team has faced each other with their current rosters.
Both teams have faced key losses but managed to stay in the playoff race. The winner will go up against Boston in the first round. Despite both teams struggling against the Celtics in the regular season, the Heat managed to eliminate Boston in the playoffs last year as the underdog.
This matchup is receiving attention from fans and players in Boston. For betting insights, check out the live odds and additional betting information below, including player props.
Bulls vs. Heat odds: Point spread, moneyline, and total
Here are the latest NBA betting odds for tonight’s game at the best US sports betting sites:
Chicago Bulls betting news and analysis
Heading into their game against the Hawks, the availability of starting shooting guard Ayo Dosunmu and backup center Andre Drummond was uncertain. Luckily, both players were able to play and make a significant impact. The Bulls’ starters had a strong shooting performance, with all but Alex Caruso scoring in double digits.
Dosunmu contributed 19 points on efficient shooting, while White had a career-high 42 points in a standout performance. The Bulls will aim to carry this momentum into their game against Miami, who also showcased a strong performance in their last game despite the loss.
More: Best NBA betting sites | Latest NBA betting promos and bonuses
Miami Heat betting news and analysis
The Heat limited the Sixers to 105 points in their previous game but struggled offensively, scoring only 104 points. The absence of Terry Rozier, their third-leading scorer, made offense a challenge for Miami. Without Rozier, the Heat faced difficulties against the Sixers, and Adebayo’s below-average scoring also impacted the team’s performance.
Against a strong defensive team like the Bulls, Miami will face a tough challenge, especially in scoring points in the paint. The Bulls’ elite defense in this area could pose a challenge for Adebayo. Keep an eye on this matchup as it unfolds.
Related: Updated 2024 NBA Championship futures odds | NBA prop betting
Bulls vs. Heat game props at BetMGM Sportsbook
Both teams have a reputation as scrappy underdogs, setting the stage for a tough battle. Expect a competitive game where every point matters, making the player prop market an exciting one to watch.
Stay tuned for available props to see our picks when they are released.
Bulls vs. Heat prediction ATS
The Bulls have a slight edge with three reliable scorers in their starting lineup, making them valuable underdogs. With Miami missing Rozier, look for Chicago to pull out a close victory, especially with their strong defense against inside scoring.
Prediction: Bulls