Eastern Conference Clash: Chicago Bulls Face Charlotte Hornets in a Battle of Wounded Squads - Can the Bulls Capitalise on Home Court Advantage?

The Chicago Bulls, currently ninth in the Eastern Conference with a 17-17 record and on a two-game winning streak, host the Charlotte Hornets, who are twelfth in the East with an 11-23 record and on a three-game losing streak. This match-up presents a battle of depleted rosters. The Bulls are expected to have an advantage at home, coupled with their more stable form. The Hornets face an uphill battle due to injuries and their struggles on the road. The Bulls will be missing multiple players, including White and Giddy. They will rely on DeMar DeRozan, averaging 24.2 points per game, along with Vucevic's inside presence and LaVine's outside shooting. Their team offense, averaging 118.8 points per game, and assists, averaging 29.5, are among the best in the league. The Hornets are significantly hampered by injuries, with Plumlee and Williams out in the frontcourt. Diabaté is also questionable. They will depend on Bridges, averaging 20 points per game, as well as Miller and Ball, who averages 8.2 assists. The Hornets have a poor road record, with only 4 wins and 13 losses, and have defensive vulnerabilities.