The Chicago Bulls have demonstrated resilience after hitting a rough patch, and they will face the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night, who are trying to bounce back from an even more challenging slump.
Bulls’ Performance and Strategy
The Bulls secured a 116-111 home victory against the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday. Nikola Vucevic and Josh Giddey each scored 23 points, while Coby White contributed 22 points. Giddey also recorded a triple-double with 15 rebounds and 10 assists, becoming the first Chicago player since Jimmy Butler in the 2016-17 season to achieve multiple triple-doubles in a single season.
This victory snapped a three-game losing streak for the Bulls and prevented them from experiencing their second four-game losing streak of the season. Notably, two of the previous week’s losses were by margins exceeding 20 points.
Good decision-making has been a key factor in the Bulls’ recent success. Coby White, who will be playing in his home state of North Carolina for the Charlotte game, has reached the 20-point mark in consecutive games for the first time in a month. He scored 23 points against the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday.
Hornets’ Challenges
The Hornets, currently on a seven-game losing streak, are seeking positive moments in an otherwise challenging season. Their situation is further complicated by injuries to key players. Leading scorers LaMelo Ball (left ankle, right wrist) and Brandon Miller (left ankle) missed Saturday night’s 106-94 home loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Ball is currently ranked fourth in the NBA, averaging 30.1 points per game.
Both Ball and Miller are listed as doubtful for the game against Chicago.
Charlotte has won only one of its last 16 games, resulting in a somber mood within the team. The Hornets need a boost to lift their spirits and improve their performance.
Previous Matchup and Injuries
The Bulls previously defeated the visiting Hornets 109-95 on December 13. Ayo Dosunmu led Chicago with 19 points, while Brandon Miller scored a team-high 21 points for Charlotte, playing without LaMelo Ball.
Dosunmu will not be available for Monday’s game due to a calf strain and will be reevaluated in about 10 days. Chicago’s Lonzo Ball, LaMelo’s older brother, had 10 points in the previous matchup, which remains his season-high total.
Roster Updates
The Bulls made a roster move over the weekend by signing forward Emanuel Miller and waiving guard DJ Steward. Miller was previously with the Texas Legends, the Dallas Mavericks’ G League team.
Outlook for Monday’s Game
The Bulls will aim to continue their positive momentum and build on their recent victory. Meanwhile, the Hornets will look for ways to overcome their injury challenges and break their losing streak.
