The Toronto Raptors (29-30) are set to face the Chicago Bulls (27-32) on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. Both teams are battling for positioning in the Eastern Conference playoff race, making this a crucial game as the season winds down.
Team Performance and Recent Form
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors have won three of their last five games, showing resilience as they push toward a possible play-in tournament berth. They are coming off a 110-102 victory over the Detroit Pistons, where Scottie Barnes led with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, while RJ Barrett contributed 19 points.
Toronto’s offense has been inconsistent, averaging 112.4 points per game this season, while their defense ranks in the middle of the pack, allowing 111.7 points per game. They thrive in transition but have struggled in half-court sets, relying heavily on Barnes and Barrett to create offense.
Chicago Bulls
The Bulls have been up and down, splitting their last four games. They secured a 115-108 win against the Orlando Magic in their last outing, with Zach LaVine exploding for 28 points, and DeMar DeRozan adding 21 points and 6 assists.
Chicago’s offense has been productive, averaging 114.2 points per game, but their defense has been an issue, allowing opponents 112.9 points per game. They rely on their mid-range-heavy attack, spearheaded by DeRozan and LaVine, while center Nikola Vučević controls the boards.
Head-to-Head Matchup
This is the second meeting between these teams this season. In their first encounter on December 15, 2024, Toronto pulled out a 106-99 victory at home.
Historically, this series has been tightly contested, with Chicago winning 6 of the last 10 matchups. However, the Raptors’ improved defense and rebounding edge could make a difference this time around.
Key Players to Watch
Toronto Raptors
- Scottie Barnes – The versatile forward leads the Raptors with 17.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, excelling on both ends of the floor.
- RJ Barrett – The shooting guard is averaging 18.3 points per game since joining Toronto and remains a key perimeter scorer.
Chicago Bulls
- Zach LaVine – Leading the Bulls in scoring with 24.1 points per game, LaVine’s three-level scoring ability is crucial.
- DeMar DeRozan – A veteran leader, DeRozan contributes 21.5 points and 5.2 assists per game, excelling in clutch situations.
Game Outlook and Prediction
This game will likely come down to Toronto’s defensive energy versus Chicago’s offensive firepower. The Raptors will try to push the tempo and create transition opportunities, while the Bulls will look to control the game with their half-court execution and elite mid-range shooting.
Toronto’s defensive length and rebounding edge could give them an advantage, but Chicago’s home-court and veteran experience make this a close contest.
Prediction: Chicago Bulls 108, Toronto Raptors 104
Broadcast Info: Fans can watch the game live on NBC Sports Chicago at 8:00 PM ET.
