Bulls vs Thunder Preview: Perimeter Fireworks in OKC

The Chicago Bulls travel to Oklahoma City tonight as heavy underdogs against the defending champion Thunder. Oklahoma City owns the best record in the Western Conference at 57-16, while Chicago sits at 29-43. Although the Bulls are rebuilding with young talent, the Thunder are loaded with stars — making this one of the toughest road matchups in the entire NBA this season.

Josh Giddey leads the Bulls as their most versatile player, averaging about 20 points, about 9 assists, and about 9 rebounds per game. Matas Buzelis has flashed serious upside, shooting 50% from the field this season. However, Chicago is dealing with key injuries tonight. Anfernee Simons misses his 15th straight game, while Jaden Ivey is also unavailable, thinning an already guard-heavy rotation.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the heartbeat of Oklahoma City, averaging about 32 points per game while shooting an incredible 55% from the field. He is the reigning MVP and remains in the conversation again this season. Chet Holmgren adds about 18 points and about 8 rebounds per game while protecting the rim with elite defense. Together, they make the Thunder one of the most dominant teams in recent NBA history.

Chicago's rebuild is honest — the Bulls aren't expecting a win tonight. While Giddey must rediscover his playmaking rhythm, Buzelis needs to attack aggressively against a suffocating Thunder defense. Oklahoma City makes life extremely difficult for opponents because of their length and relentless pressure. If the Bulls play hard and show growth, that counts as progress for a franchise finally embracing a new direction.