Thursday night’s NBA action includes an Eastern Conference matchup between the Toronto Raptors and the Chicago Bulls. The Raptors arrive in Chicago with a superior record and a chance to strengthen their position in a crowded Eastern Conference playoff picture, while the Bulls look to halt a worrisome slide and regain some confidence in front of their home crowd. Before this game tips off in Chicago, continue reading for my Raptors vs Bulls prediction in the NBA.
Our Raptors vs Bulls Pick
Pick: Raptors -5.5 ATS PRO
Confidence: ★★★☆☆
Game Snapshot
Matchup: Toronto Raptors @ Chicago Bulls
Date & Time: Thursday, February 19, 2026, 8:00 PM ET
Venue: United Center, Chicago, Illinois
Broadcast: NBA League Pass
Key Players
Chicago Bulls
Josh Giddey – The Bulls’ engine, Giddey is averaging about 18.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game while knocking down around 36.6% of his long-range attempts. His all-around creation gives Chicago multiple avenues to generate offense in this contest. He is questionable for this game and the Bulls could certainly use him on the floor here.
Matas Buzelis – Scoring approximately 15.2 points per outing and pulling down 5.4 rebounds, Buzelis provides energy and physicality for Chicago. He complements Giddey’s playmaking with interior and second-chance scoring.
Anfernee Simons – With around 14.4 points per game and a 38.7% mark from distance, Simons represents a consistent scoring threat for Chicago that forces the Raptors to stay honest defensively. The acquisition of Simons around the trade deadline for Chicago could be a nice boost for the Bulls the rest of the way.
Toronto Raptors
Brandon Ingram – Leading Toronto’s scoring at about 21.8 points per game while adding 5.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists, Ingram’s efficiency and shot creation make him an important factor in Toronto’s ability to control tempo and scoring.
Scottie Barnes – Barnes has a versatile stat line with 19.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per contest. His two-way impact helps Toronto defend while maintaining offense flow.
Immanuel Quickley – As a ball handler, Quickley’s near 17 points per game and six assists fuel Toronto’s offense and spacing, giving them a chance to exploit the defensive shortcomings of Chicago throughout this game.
Stat Comparison
Stat
Toronto Raptors
Chicago Bulls
Points per game
113.8
116.8
Points allowed per game
112.3
120.6
Team Field Goal %
47.3%
47.1%
Team Free Throw %
78.1%
78.9%
Rebounds per game
43.0
44.7
Assists per game
29.3
29.2
Head-to-Head & Betting Trends
The Raptors won the lone meeting between these teams earlier this season 123-107, with Brandon Ingram leading the way in Chicago.
Against the spread this season, Toronto has a 27-28 mark, while the Bulls are around 25-30.
The under is 28-27 in Bulls games so far this season. The Raptors have stayed under the total in 33 of their first 55 games.
Raptors vs Bulls Model Projection
Score Projection: Toronto Raptors 118 – Chicago Bulls 111 ATS PRO
Win Probability: Toronto Raptors 58%, Chicago Bulls 42% ATS PRO
Final Thoughts
This game could come down to whether or not Josh Giddey is able to suit up for Chicago. But even with him, the Bulls have lost six straight games and are coming apart at the seams. I'm expecting the Bulls' struggles to continue here and I will lay the points with the Raptors, with Toronto's superior defense being the main reason they will pull away in the second half.
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