Hornets vs Bulls Prediction: Preview, Injury Report, TV Channel and How to Watch

The Charlotte Hornets host the Chicago Bulls on Friday, December 12, at Spectrum Center in Charlotte. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET, with both teams dealing with significant injuries.

This Hornets vs Bulls prediction and preview breaks down how to watch, confirmed injury updates, and what to expect as both Eastern Conference teams look to stabilize their seasons.

Hornets vs Bulls Prediction and Game Details

Chicago enters the matchup with a 9–14 record and is trying to end a four-game road losing streak. Charlotte is 7–17 and coming off a home loss to Denver.

The game will be played at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Fans can watch the Bulls vs Hornets game live on FDSSE and CHSN, with streaming available through Fubo. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET on Friday, December 12.

Chicago has been more productive offensively this season, averaging 117.3 points per game. Charlotte has struggled defensively, allowing 118.3 points per contest. However, the Hornets have played more competitively at home compared to their road performances.

Charlotte averages 114.2 points per game, which puts pressure on their defense to slow down Chicago’s backcourt. With several starters unavailable on both sides, rotations and bench depth are expected to play a major role.

Based on current form and injuries, this Hornets vs Bulls prediction leans toward a close game that could be decided late. Home-court energy and Chicago’s road struggles create a narrow margin between the teams.

Injury Report and Key Player Availability

The Bulls will be without Ayo Dosunmu, Kevin Huerter, and Noa Essengue. Dosunmu is sidelined with a thumb injury, while Essengue has been ruled out for the season with a shoulder issue.

Tre Jones, Jalen Smith, Zach Collins, Isaac Okoro, and Coby White are all listed as probable. Jones is expected to play through an ankle issue, which is important for Chicago’s backcourt stability.

For Charlotte, LaMelo Ball has been ruled out with an ankle injury and will miss his second straight game. Grant Williams, Pat Connaughton, Collin Sexton, and Tre Mann are also unavailable.

Moussa Diabate is listed as questionable with knee soreness. Josh Green is off the injury report and is expected to return, giving Charlotte an additional perimeter defender.

With Ball sidelined, the Hornets are expected to lean more heavily on Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller for scoring and playmaking responsibilities.

What the Matchup Means Going Forward

For Chicago, this game represents a chance to reset after recent road losses. Josh Giddey and Nikola Vucevic remain central to the offense, especially against a Charlotte defense that has allowed high shooting percentages.

Charlotte is still searching for consistency without its starting point guard. The Hornets have shown flashes at home, but injuries continue to disrupt lineup continuity.

This Hornets vs Bulls prediction ultimately reflects two teams navigating adversity. Execution in the fourth quarter and defensive discipline are likely to determine the outcome.

With both teams short-handed, Bulls vs Hornets on December 12 shapes up as a tightly contested Eastern Conference matchup with momentum on the line.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time is Hornets vs Bulls on December 12?

The game tips off at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, December 12. It will be played at Spectrum Center in Charlotte.

Q2: How can I watch Bulls vs Hornets live?

The game will air on FDSSE and CHSN. Fans can also stream the matchup through Fubo.

Q3: Is LaMelo Ball playing against the Bulls?

No. LaMelo Ball has been ruled out with an ankle injury and will miss the game.

Q4: Who are the key players to watch?

Josh Giddey and Nikola Vucevic lead Chicago, while Miles Bridges and Brandon Miller are central for Charlotte.

Q5: Where is Bulls vs Hornets being played?

The game will be held at Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.