Chicago Bulls vs Sacramento Kings Picks and Predictions January 12th 2025

Kings Look to Extend Six-Game Winning Streak Against Resurgent Bulls

The Sacramento Kings are on a roll, having secured six consecutive wins under interim head coach Doug Christie, and they’ll aim to keep the momentum going when they visit the Chicago Bulls on Sunday afternoon. Meanwhile, the Bulls have found their rhythm in 2025, with Zach LaVine leading the charge as they seek to build on a dominant win over Washington.

Kings’ Dominance Under Christie

The Kings (21-21) hit the .500 mark for the first time in a month with an impressive 114-97 victory over the Boston Celtics on Friday night. Domantas Sabonis was a force to be reckoned with, hauling in a career- and franchise-best 28 rebounds to go along with 23 points. Despite the historic feat, Sabonis credited his teammates for their collective effort and energy.

“It’s important, but we’re not satisfied. We’ve got to keep going for more,” Sabonis said. “We’re building something, a standard, and that’s how we want to play every game.”

Sacramento has leaned on a balanced scoring attack during their streak, with DeMar DeRozan stepping up in the absence of leading scorer De’Aaron Fox, who has missed three games with a glute contusion. DeRozan, a former Bulls standout, scored 12 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter against Boston, showing his trademark clutch play.

Other contributors include Malik Monk, who had 22 points on Friday, and rookie Keegan Murray, who added 19. The team’s newfound belief and positivity have been integral to their recent success.

“I think they’ve begun to believe in themselves, and that goes past coaching,” Christie said.

LaVine’s Scoring Surge Leading the Bulls

The Bulls (18-20) opened a five-game homestand in style, dismantling the Washington Wizards 138-105 on Friday. Zach LaVine continued his torrid scoring pace, tallying 33 points to mark his fifth straight game with at least 30. He joins Michael Jordan and DeMar DeRozan as the only Bulls in franchise history to achieve such a streak.

LaVine’s recent success against the Kings—averaging 32.6 points and shooting 52.7% in his last five meetings—bodes well for Chicago’s chances on Sunday.

Nikola Vucevic complemented LaVine’s scoring with a double-double of 23 points and 13 rebounds against Washington. Coby White and Jalen Smith chipped in 15 points apiece, as the Bulls showcased a season-high 39 assists and came within one point of their highest scoring output this season.

“From the start, we’ve been an unselfish group,” Bulls coach Billy Donovan said. “Our ball movement has been a key factor.”

Key Matchups

• Domantas Sabonis vs. Nikola Vucevic: Sabonis’ ability to dominate the boards and initiate offense from the post will test Vucevic’s defensive capabilities. Vucevic’s stretch shooting and rebounding will be equally vital for Chicago.
• DeMar DeRozan vs. Zach LaVine: DeRozan, returning to Chicago for the first time since being traded, will look to match LaVine’s scoring and playmaking in what could be a battle of marquee wing players.
• Kings’ Bench vs. Bulls’ Depth: With De’Aaron Fox sidelined, Sacramento has relied on Monk and Murray to step up. Meanwhile, Chicago’s bench showed flashes against Washington and will need to sustain that production.

What’s at Stake

For Sacramento, extending their win streak to seven games would further solidify their playoff aspirations and continue to bolster Christie’s case as a permanent head coach. A win would also keep their confidence high as they navigate a challenging road trip.

For Chicago, a victory would bring them closer to .500 and improve their standing in the crowded Eastern Conference playoff race. It would also signal that the team is finding its stride after an up-and-down start to the season.

Dive into the Latest NBA Scoring Leader Race with Updated Odds and Expert Analysis

Prediction

Both teams are playing inspired basketball, but Sacramento’s balanced attack and the emotional boost of DeRozan’s return to Chicago could tip the scales. If Fox remains out, the Kings’ ability to contain LaVine will be critical.

Final Score Prediction: Kings 117, Bulls 110