Chicago Bulls (9-16) vs. Miami Heat (14-10)
Bulls vs. Heat 12/16/23 – On Saturday, Chicago Bulls will face Miami Heat for an exhilarating NBA showdown. As such, those searching for Top-rated free NBA picks today should pay particular attention. As these two sides prepare to collide head on, an analysis of performance metrics, key players, and betting trends becomes vital in predicting their results in this high-stakes clash.
The Chicago Bulls, despite their current standing, have shown remarkable resilience and potential. Averaging 109.1 points per game on 44.6% field goal shooting shows solid offensive strategy; 36.3% 3-point success rate indicates strength in 3-point shooting alone! They excel in rebounding as they average 42.8 rebounds per game which could prove vital against Miami Heat, yet defensive play must remain consistent to neutralize their offense.
Miami Heat are an imposing challenge, averaging 112.6 points per game with a higher field goal percentage (47.1%) to provide efficient scoring abilities. They hold an impressive 3-point shooting percentage (38.6%) slightly better than their rival Bulls; additionally their free throw shooting success rate of 83.7% gives them an edge; although their lower rebounding average of 40.8 per game and similar defensive stats mean it remains closely contested contest.
Bulls vs. Heat 12/16/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Kaseya Center |
| TV: | BSSUN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
DeMar DeRozan (SF) vs. Tyler Herro (PG)
DeMar DeRozan continues to shoulder a heavy load for this injury-plagued Bulls squad. Logging 36 minutes a night, the 4-time All-Star leads Chicago with 22.3 points on 44.6% shooting. However, DeRozan has struggled from 3-point range (25%) and his high usage rate has resulted in nearly 3 turnovers per contest. Still, with his masterful footwork and mid-range scoring ability, DeRozan remains Chicago’s go-to option late in games.
Tyler Herro has taken his game to another level this season, establishing himself as a focal point of Miami’s offense. With 22.9 points, 5 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year has seamlessly handled an increased role. Herro has also been more aggressive attacking the rim resulting in 8.3 free throw attempts per outing. If he continues this torrid pace, Herro may find himself Miami’s first All-Star selection this year.
This matchup will likely come down to supporting casts. While both DeRozan and Herro excel at creating their own shot, they will need teammates to generate consistent offense. For Chicago, the health of Zach LaVine, Lonzo Ball, and Alex Caruso is pivotal if they want to compete down the stretch. Meanwhile, Miami will look to max-contract players Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo to provide that supplementary scoring. Ultimately, Miami’s superior depth gives them an edge at home.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds, yet to be released, will offer valuable insights into this matchup. These odds will be reflective of both teams’ current form, key player matchups, and historical performance against each other.
Chicago Bulls Betting Trends
The Bulls are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games showing they can keep games competitive. But Chicago is just 5-10 SU over that same sample, emphasizing their difficulty closing out wins. The Bulls are also logging a lot miles going 5-2 ATS over the last 7 road matchups. However, with a 6-13 SU record in their last 19 meetings versus Miami, Chi-Town has struggled in this rivalry of late.
Miami Heat Betting Trends
Despite Miami’s sterling 13-6 SU record over the last 19 contests, they have posted a losing 3-9 ATS mark at home this season. That trend doesn’t bode well facing a frisky Bulls team that is 4-2 ATS over their last 6 versus the Heat. One promising trend for Miami backers is their 4-2 SU record over the last 6 games against Eastern Conference foes. With both teams residing in the East, Miami’s intra-conference success is noteworthy.
Chicago Bulls vs. Miami Heat 12/16/2023 Betting Picks
Considering the teams’ performances and betting trends, this matchup is set to be a closely contested battle. The Bulls’ strong ATS trend and high-scoring games contrast with the Heat’s solid SU record and tendency for lower-scoring games against Chicago.
In terms of picks, it may be wise to look at the Bulls’ ability to cover the spread given their recent trends but Miami to take this game, while also considering the possibility of a high-scoring game. Prop bets on key players like DeRozan and Herro, focusing on their scoring and assists, could be lucrative. The over/under bet will hinge on the teams’ recent scoring trends, with best handicapper insights suggesting a potential for a high-scoring game.
Free Pick and Prediction: Miami Heat 118, Chicago Bulls 115