Charlotte Hornets vs Chicago Bulls Picks and Prediction for Saturday January 3 2026

By: Eddie Kline Published 01/03/2026, 04:55 AM ET

Hornets Preview

In Saturday night NBA action, the Charlotte Hornets will invade the United Center to take on the Chicago Bulls. For other NBA action see our NBA Predictions. The Hornets (11-23) have dropped 13 of their first 17 road games and are likely to miss the playoffs for a tenth straight consecutive season. Last night, Charlotte was unable to protect an early 16-point lead during a 122-121 road loss against Milwaukee.

Rookie G Kon Knueppel tallied a team-high 26 points on 9-for-16 shooting and pulled down four boards. Charlotte F Miles Bridges knocked down 5-for-10 from long range and finished with 25 points. Brandon Miller added 19 points, seven rebounds, and four assists for the Hornets.

Bulls Preview

The Chicago Bulls have won eight of their last 11 games and have moved into ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings. The Bulls (17-17) rank in the middle of the pack in offensive efficiency and are averaging a shade below 119 points per contest. Last night, Chicago outscored Orlando by 11 points over the final 12 minutes to earn a 121-114 home victory.

Matas Buzelis led six Chicago players in double figures with 21 points (7-8 FT), nine rebounds, and seven assists. Kevin Huerter scored 20 points (4-9 3 PT) in 24 minutes off the bench. Ayo Dosunmu and Nikola Vucevic added 17 points apiece for the Bulls, who improved to 10-8 at home.

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Hornets vs Bulls Pick

Chicago will be without injured guards Josh Giddey (hamstring) and Coby White (calf) for this contest. These two teams rank in the bottom seven of the league in defensive efficiency and are playing on consecutive nights. Look for the Bulls to edge the Hornets in a game that goes over the total. Final Score Prediction, Chicago Bulls win 126-122.

How To Bet This Matchup

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