SportsLine model projects high-scoring outcome for Knicks-Bulls matchup

Early season matchups in the NBA often reveal underlying team structures before sample sizes become large. On Wednesday, October 28, the defending champion New York Knicks travel to Chicago to face the Bulls, a contest where betting markets and statistical models are focusing on pace and scoring rather than just the winner.

The SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every possession 10,000 times, has identified the over on the total points as a favorable option. The model projects 238 combined points for the game, a figure that exceeds the sportsbook over/under line of 234.5. This projection aligns with recent historical trends between these two franchises. The over has hit in six of their last nine meetings, and it has covered in three of the four Bulls games played in the 2026-27 season.

Defensive metrics from the current season support the expectation of a high-scoring affair. The Bulls are currently ranked 30th in the league, allowing 129.5 points per game. The Knicks, coming off a 111-97 victory over Detroit, are also playing with an offensive emphasis. The model notes that one side of the spread hits well over 60 percent of the time in its simulations, though the specific spread pick is reserved for subscribers.

Individual performance levels further complicate the defensive outlook for both teams. For New York, guard Jalen Brunson is averaging 22.8 points, 4.5 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in four games. Center Karl-Anthony Towns is contributing 22.5 points, 14 rebounds, and 2.8 assists. Chicago is relying on forward Caleb Wilson, who is averaging 21 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.8 steals in 34 minutes per game.

The betting market has New York as a 7.5-point favorite for the Wednesday night game at the United Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. The Knicks hold a 1-3 record this season after finishing second in the Atlantic Division last year, while the Bulls are also 1-3 following a fourth-place finish in the Central Division. The model has maintained a 26-10 record on top-rated NBA spread picks since last season, having generated nearly $19,000 in profit for $100 players since 2018.